2004 Volkswagen Polo 1.4L Petrol · GJ04 AEG

The 2025-08-31 MOT at 114,574 miles recorded a failure, meaning the vehicle does not currently meet roadworthiness standards even though the test sheet lists no defects. The alternating pass in March 2024, pass in February 2023, failure in February 2023, and pass in March 2022 reveal an inconsistent maintenance history rather than a clear upward or downward trajectory. At 22 years old, the 114,574 miles equate to roughly 5,200 miles per year, a figure that is low for a vehicle of this age and suggests periods of limited use or extended stationary storage. Mileage rose from 100,569 miles on 29 March 2022 to 111,444 miles on 23 February 2023, a gain of 10,875 miles over eleven months, then remained virtually unchanged on 24 February 2023 before climbing to 113,641 miles by 14 March 2024 and finally to 114,574 miles by 31 August 2025, showing a steady but modest accumulation. A buyer should therefore examine the suspension bushes and coil springs for wear or cracking, test the binding condition of the rear brake calipers and inspect the brake discs for scoring or corrosion, and scrutinise the chassis and wheel arches for any signs of structural rust or damage that could compromise integrity. While tyre tread and wiper blade condition are typical consumable wear items, the absence of recorded defects in successive tests does not guarantee the absence of underlying mechanical faults, so a thorough physical inspection is essential before purchase.