2018 Volkswagen Polo 1.0L Petrol · AP18 ABU

The latest MOT test on the 2018 Volkswagen Polo, conducted on 2026-05-08, resulted in a failure due to a critical issue with the nearside front outer track rod end ball joint dust cover being insecure, allowing dirt ingress—a major defect under DVSA standards. This follows a previous MOT on the same date that also recorded a major failure for the same component, alongside an advisory for the offside front tyre cut and a minor failure for the offside front outer track rod end ball joint dust cover deterioration. The preceding MOTs in 2025 and 2024 were clean, indicating that while the vehicle’s maintenance history has been largely stable, the recent failures suggest a deterioration in the track rod end ball joint assemblies, which are critical for steering linkage integrity and suspension alignment. The presence of multiple advisories for tyre damage, including sidewall cracking, further implies that the vehicle has either been subjected to prolonged periods of static use or has experienced minor impacts that have accelerated wear beyond typical mileage expectations. The recorded mileage of 29,603 miles for a vehicle aged eight years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 3,700 miles per annum, which is unusual for its age and could indicate either infrequent operation or extended periods of inactivity. Such low mileage often correlates with increased risks of standing-related corrosion, particularly in the brake systems, suspension components, and undercarriage, where moisture and road salt can accelerate rust formation. Additionally, low-mileage vehicles may have fluid degradation over time due to stagnation, leading to potential issues with brake fluid contamination, coolant system corrosion, or engine oil thickening. The track rod end ball joint failures, however, suggest that the vehicle’s suspension components have been subjected to wear beyond what would typically be expected from such mileage, possibly due to misalignment, excessive flexing, or previous undetected damage. For a prospective buyer, the most urgent concern is the critical failure of the nearside front track rod end ball joint dust cover, which must be addressed immediately to prevent steering play, suspension binding, or even suspension failure during operation. On a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, particularly when turning or over bumps, as these could indicate loose or worn ball joints. Inspect the steering wheel for excessive play or vibration, which may signal misalignment or failing components. The offside front track rod end ball joint also shows minor deterioration, so further inspection is advised to assess whether it has progressed to a similar state. The tyre advisories, including sidewall cracking, necessitate a thorough check of all tyres for perishing or delamination, as cracked sidewalls can lead to sudden blowouts or reduced traction. Replace any tyres with sidewall damage immediately, as they pose a significant safety risk. Beyond the immediate concerns, the vehicle’s low annual mileage means it is more susceptible to calendar-based wear issues. Check the brake discs for corrosion or binding calipers, as prolonged standing can cause rust buildup on the discs or seized brake components. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and test the 12V battery’s charge capacity, as low usage can lead to weak or dead batteries. Fluid servicing should be prioritised, with particular attention to the brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil, as these can degrade over time even with minimal mileage. Verify that the service book has been updated for the full oil and filter change, as well as any scheduled maintenance such as spark plug replacement or timing belt inspection (if applicable). Finally, a professional inspection of the exhaust system and emissions components is recommended to ensure compliance with current regulations, especially given the vehicle’s age.