2017 Volkswagen Golf 2.0L Diesel · VE67 LWT

A recurring pattern of suspension and wheel component advisories has emerged over the last two years, despite the vehicle securing a clean pass on 16 June 2026. The mechanical history shows a trend of developing wear in the damping and suspension systems, specifically regarding shock absorber oil misting and bushing degradation, which were prominent in the November 2025 and November 2024 tests. While the most recent inspection recorded no defects, the previous two years indicate a progression from tyre structural failures and wheel distortions toward more persistent issues with the suspension linkages and dampers. The vehicle has covered 76,075 miles over its nine-year lifespan, averaging approximately 8,453 miles per year. This represents a typical usage profile for a petrol or diesel hatchback of this age, suggesting the mechanical wear observed in the MOT records is consistent with regular road use rather than the effects of long-term stationary periods. This level of annual mileage means that while major drivetrain components may not be excessively aged, consumable items such as suspension bushes, shock absorbers, and tyres are reaching the expected stages of their service life. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the suspension and steering geometry during a test drive. The history of light oil misting on both offside front and nearside rear shock absorbers, alongside advisories for worn lower suspension arm bushes, warrants a close inspection. Listen for any knocking or clunking noises when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which could indicate that the previously noted bushing wear has progressed. Additionally, check for any uneven tyre wear or pulling to one side during straight-line driving, as the previous records of distorted inner road wheels and worn tyre edges suggest potential alignment or rim issues. The structural integrity of the wheels should also be verified, given the repeated advisories regarding slight distortions to the offside rear and nearside rear inner road wheels. Any vibration felt through the steering wheel or the brake pedal at motorway speeds could be a symptom of these wheel distortions or unevenly worn brake components. While the 2021 advisory for thin rear brake pads is now several years old, a thorough check of the remaining pad thickness and disc surface condition is necessary to ensure no further degradation has occurred since the last recorded brake-related observation.