2009 Volkswagen Polo 1.4L Diesel · A19 MAV

Brake wear and anti‑roll bar dust‑cover condition dominate the MOT narrative – every test since 2023 has flagged the front brake discs as “worn but not excessively”, and the near‑side front anti‑roll bar dust cover progressed from a severe deterioration advisory in 2024 to a outright failure in 2025 before being cleared again in the June 2026 pass. The latest test confirms the vehicle is road‑worthy for now, but the pattern shows a component that is approaching the end of its service life and a brake system that is consistently approaching the wear limit. At 45,259 mi after 17 years the annual mileage averages roughly 2,660 mi, well below the typical usage for a small hatchback. Such low utilisation can mean the drivetrain and engine have endured relatively little mechanical stress, yet age‑related degradation of rubber, bushings and corrosion‑prone parts is still a factor. The MOT record shows no gaps in testing, indicating the vehicle has been regularly inspected despite the modest mileage, which reduces the risk of hidden high‑mileage wear but does not eliminate the inevitable wear of components that age with time. Prospective buyers should give the front braking system close attention. Inspect the disc thickness on both sides and look for any scoring, warping or uneven wear that could cause pulsation under braking; feel for a gradual increase in pedal travel or a high‑pitched squeal that would indicate pads are near the end of their life. The anti‑roll bar dust cover should be examined for rust, cracks or loose mounting – any play in the front suspension or a vague knocking sensation over bumps may point to a compromised ball‑joint seal that could re‑fail. The rear tyres, noted as slightly damaged or perishing, should be checked for sidewall cracks, tread delamination and uneven wear, and replaced if any of these signs are present. Finally, verify that all external lighting, particularly the registration plate lamp that failed in 2022, operates correctly, and listen for any unusual noises from the front suspension while steering through a figure‑eight. Pay special attention to the condition of the front suspension bushes and ball joints for signs of looseness or corrosion, as the anti‑roll bar dust‑cover issue suggests exposure to dirt and moisture. A thorough visual and tactile inspection of these areas, combined with a short test‑drive, will reveal whether the vehicle’s age‑related wear is within acceptable limits or if imminent component replacement should be budgeted for.