2002 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · SO02 AGY

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance history that culminated in a significant failure in August 2022. While it passed a subsequent re-test later in that same month at 85,560 miles, this followed a catastrophic failure just one week prior at 85,495 miles. The trend indicates a reactive rather than proactive approach to repairs, as owners only addressed faults when forced by a failed MOT test. The 2022 failure was particularly severe, revealing a multitude of critical safety and mechanical defects, including inoperative power steering, a major exhaust leak, and bald tyres. At 24 years old, the recorded mileage of 85,560 miles is remarkably low, averaging approximately 3,565 miles per year. However, the data shows a significant gap in testing, with the last recorded MOT occurring in August 2022. As of June 2026, the vehicle is nearly four years out of date. This low annual mileage often masks the degradation of rubber components and seals due to stasis rather than wear, and the lack of recent testing makes the current state of the vehicle's structural integrity and braking system entirely unknown. A prospective buyer must physically inspect the suspension and steering systems, which have shown recurring issues. The record consistently flags worn anti-roll bar linkages, track rod ends, and rear axle swivel bushes between 2019 and 2022. The nearside front service brake binding noted in 2022 suggests a sticking caliper or a perished slide pin that requires immediate attention. Given the previous history of corroded exhaust pipes and leaking shock absorbers, a thorough underbody inspection for corrosion on the chassis and mounting points is essential to ensure the low mileage has not resulted in undetected rust decay.