2015 Volkswagen Polo 1.0L Petrol · FL15 AAN

The most recent MOT, conducted on 3 March 2026, was passed but carried an advisory for a minor exhaust gas leak at the centre joint. Over the past three years the car has shown a pattern of recurring minor exhaust leaks each year, occasional suspension bush wear advisories and a one‑off rear‑brake imbalance that caused a failure in March 2023. Although the vehicle has consistently cleared its MOT after the failures were addressed, the trend indicates a need for ongoing attention to the exhaust system, suspension components and rear braking balance rather than a clean‑bill of health. At 76,159 mi the Polo has averaged roughly 6,900 mi per annum since its first registration in 2015, which sits squarely within the normal usage envelope for a small family hatchback. There are no obvious periods of high‑speed accumulation or large mileage gaps that would suggest severe wear spikes, but the relatively modest annual mileage also hints that the car may have spent extended periods stationary, a factor that can accelerate age‑related deterioration of rubber and metal components. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the exhaust system. A persistent centre‑joint leak can allow exhaust gases, including carbon monoxide, to escape near the cabin and may be audible as a ticking or hissing noise, especially when the engine is under load. Inspect the joint for rust, cracked gaskets or broken clamps and verify that any previous repair was carried out with a proper sealant or replacement pipe. The suspension advisories for both front arm pins/bushes suggest that the bushings are approaching the end of their service life; a test‑drive should be conducted over uneven road surfaces to listen for clunking or feel for excessive play in the steering. Uneven tyre wear, especially on the front corners, would corroborate worn bushings and may require a full alignment and replacement of the affected bushes. The rear‑brake imbalance recorded in 2023 should be checked by examining the disc surfaces for uneven scoring, measuring pad thickness on each side of the axle, and feeling for any pull to one side when applying the brakes. If the car has been sitting for long periods, the rear calipers may be binding and could need a bleed or caliper rebuild. Given the vehicle’s age, time‑based maintenance is as critical as mileage‑based wear. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, even if tread depth appears adequate, as ageing rubber can fail suddenly. Verify the 12 V battery’s state of charge and terminal condition, looking for corrosion that could impede cranking. Check the brake discs for surface rust or glazing, especially if the car has been idle, and ensure the brake fluid has been replaced within the last two years to avoid moisture absorption. Confirm that routine service stamps are present for oil, coolant and filter changes, and that any timing‑chain or belt service recommended by Volkswagen has been observed. Finally, examine the under‑tray and surrounding chassis for signs of rust or corrosion, as the 2020 advisory noted obscuring trays that can hide early corrosion on the sub‑frame or exhaust mounts. Addressing these points will give a clear indication of the Polo’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it to a reliable, long‑term condition.