2010 Volkswagen Polo 1.6L Diesel · MK51 ANG
2010 Volkswagen Polo (1.6L, diesel). First registered 10 Mar 2010. Recorded mileage 141,056 miles. MOT expired on 16 Sept 2024. Currently declared SORN. A manufacturer safety recall is currently outstanding.
- Make & Model
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO
- Year / Origin
- 2010 · Manchester & Merseyside
- Safety Recall
- Recall Notice
- MOT Status
- Expired on 16 Sept 2024
- Road Tax
- SORN
- Recorded Mileage
- 141,056 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Outstanding Safety Recall Notice
Action RequiredOfficial DVSA telemetry indicates this vehicle has an unaddressed manufacturer safety recall. Remedial repairs are legally required to be carried out 100% free of charge by an authorised main dealer.
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
MK51 ANG Key Findings
- 2 MOT tests recorded
- Outstanding manufacturer safety recall notice
- Latest MOT passed on 18/09/2023
- 141,056 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 2 defects noted at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MK51 ANG MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
2 MOT tests are recorded for this 2010 Volkswagen Polo (MK51 ANG) between September 2023 and September 2023.
The record contains 1 pass and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 18 September 2023 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (3 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 4 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
MK51 ANG Mileage History
- 18/09/2023141,056 mi
- 18/09/2023141,056 mi
Average of roughly 0 miles per year across 2 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Volkswagen Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (6R/6C)
Our database tracks 5 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Poor
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution. While the 1.6L diesel engine is likely robust, the MOT history reveals recurring corrosion and suspension wear that may require immediate financial attention upon purchase.
When inspecting this Polo, prioritize the service history; at over 141,000 miles, ensure the timing belt and water pump have been replaced recently (typically every 80k-100k miles on this engine). Ask for proof of exhaust system repairs, as the MOT history shows a persistent flexible pipe leak noted between 2019 and 2023.
Negotiate based on the advisory notices, specifically the corroded front sub-frame and the offside anti-roll bar ball joint. While not yet failure points, these are areas where maintenance costs will inevitably accrue. Check the state of the tyres thoroughly, as the vehicle has a history of failing for insufficient tread depth in the past.
The 1.6L diesel engine is generally efficient for long miles, likely achieving 55-60 mpg if driven sensibly. Tax bands for this era of Polo are typically moderate, but insurance groups can vary significantly depending on your personal profile and UK location.
Maintenance costs for a high-mileage VW diesel can be steep if components like the injectors fail. Expect an annual running cost of approximately £1,100-£1,400 including fuel, tax, insurance, and routine servicing.
Focus heavily on the front sub-frame; the 2023 MOT noted corrosion that was 'not seriously weakened,' but rust is a progressive issue on older Polos. Also check for any signs of rust along the exhaust system and the mounting points.
Examine the suspension thoroughly. The history shows a major failure for rear shock absorbers in 2018 and advisories for anti-roll bar joints in 2023. Test drive over bumps to listen for knocks or clunks, which would indicate the suspension components are nearing their end.
This 2010 Volkswagen Polo features a 1.6L TDI engine and has covered 141,000 miles, which is significant for its age. While it has passed its recent tests, the history shows a pattern of exhaust leaks, suspension issues, and structural corrosion. The recent advisory notes a corroded front sub-frame, suggesting the vehicle is susceptible to rust and needs to be monitored closely.
The 1.6 TDI engine in the Polo is known for being durable but can be sensitive to DPF issues if used only for short city trips.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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