2017 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · AJ66 MTF

A recurring theme of front‑end wear and tyre edge deterioration emerges from the MOT record, with the latest test on 23 January 2026 confirming the vehicle passed but flagging a pitted front brake disc, near‑side front tyre close to the legal limit, front suspension arm bush wear and rear service‑brake binding. Earlier advisories echo this pattern: thin front brake pads in 2023, a damaged near‑side rear tyre in 2025 and the same front suspension concern noted in 2026, indicating that wear on the braking and suspension components has been progressive rather than isolated. The overall trend shows a vehicle that remains road‑worthy but is entering a maintenance phase where the front braking system and suspension will likely require attention soon. With 52,932 mi recorded over roughly nine years, the average annual accumulation is about 5,900 mi, well below the typical UK usage of 10‑12 000 mi per year. This low mileage suggests the car has been driven lightly, which can preserve engine and drivetrain wear but does not prevent age‑related degradation of rubber and metal components. The MOT history shows no large gaps in testing; annual checks have been performed consistently, providing a reliable picture of the vehicle’s condition despite the modest mileage. Prospective buyers should focus on the front braking assembly: listen for a high‑pitched squeal or feel a pulsating pedal that can indicate disc scoring, and feel for any vibration when applying the brakes, which would confirm the advisory about the pitted disc. The thin front pads noted in 2023 will likely be near the end of their service life, so a visual inspection for pad thickness and uneven wear is advisable, and replacement should be planned. The rear brake binding advisory suggests the rear caliper may be sticking; look for a dragging sensation on release, a warm rear wheel after short journeys, or a slight pull to one side when braking. The front suspension arm bush wear, especially on the driver’s side, can manifest as a clunk or knock when passing bumps and may cause slight steering play. Inspect the bushings for looseness or excessive movement and verify that the wheel alignment remains true, as misalignment could be contributing to the tyre edge wear recorded on the near‑side front tyre. The near‑side rear tyre damage noted in 2025 warrants a thorough visual check for cracks, bulges or sidewall perishing; any signs of structural fatigue would necessitate immediate replacement. Addressing these items—brake disc resurfacing or replacement, front pad renewal, suspension bush inspection, and tyre replacement—will bring the car back within a comfortable safety margin for continued road use.