2016 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · AK66 AAY

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 29 June 2026 with four advisories recorded, all relating to the tyres. No structural, braking, suspension or exhaust defects were identified at this test, and the pass certificate was issued cleanly aside from the advisory notes. Looking at the trajectory across the recorded history, the 2022 and 2023 tests were completely clean, but from 2024 onwards there has been a steady appearance of advisories concerning the tyres, brake discs and front brake pads. The trend is therefore not one of neglect, but it does indicate that consumable wear is now becoming more apparent as the vehicle reaches ten years of age and approaches 70,000 miles, which is consistent with normal component ageing rather than any specific mechanical deterioration. With approximately 69,909 miles recorded over a ten-year period, the Polo has covered an average of around 6,991 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this type and age. There are no significant gaps in the recorded mileage progression that would suggest long periods of standing or storage, and there is no evidence of unusually rapid accumulation that might indicate motorway or fleet-style heavy use. The mileage profile therefore points to consistent mixed-use driving, which is generally favourable for mechanical condition, as components such as the clutch, gearbox, drivetrain and suspension are exercised regularly. Even so, the cumulative wear from approaching 70,000 miles should not be underestimated, as several major service items typically fall due within this mileage band on a Polo of this generation, including timing belt replacement if it has not already been addressed, coolant renewal, and spark plug and ignition component inspection. The recurring advisories on both rear tyres, recorded at the 2024, 2025 and 2026 tests, indicate persistent cuts that have remained sub-legal in depth but warrant close attention. On inspection, the buyer should examine the sidewalls and tread of all four tyres for any signs of perishing, cracking or bulging associated with age, as a 2016 tyre set will be approaching the ten-year mark where rubber compound hardening becomes a safety concern regardless of tread depth. The 2026 advisory concerning uneven inner-edge wear on both front tyres suggests an emerging tracking or suspension geometry concern; on a test drive, listen for any pulling to one side, vagueness through the steering, or clonking over bumps, and have the front wheel geometry and suspension bushes, particularly the wishbone and anti-roll bar bushes commonly affected on this model, inspected professionally before purchase. The 2024 advisories on the front brake discs and nearside front outer brake pads are particularly relevant when assessing forward stopping performance. The pads were noted as being approximately 2mm at that test, meaning they are now likely at or near the end of their service life, and the recorded disc wear suggests the discs may also be approaching replacement. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for any brake squeal or grinding, feel for brake shudder or vibration through the steering wheel under firm application, and check that the vehicle pulls up straight without juddering. It would be prudent to budget for a complete front brake disc and pad refurbishment as an imminent maintenance item. Beyond the recorded defects, given the vehicle's age, the buyer should also verify the service book stamps for cambelt replacement, check the 12V battery health as original units are frequently due for renewal around this age, and inspect the underside and wheel arches for any corrosion, paying particular attention to the rear arches and suspension mounting points which are known areas on older Polos. Confirmation that brake fluid and coolant have been renewed at appropriate calendar intervals, typically every two to three years, would further strengthen confidence in the vehicle's overall maintenance.