2016 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · AP65 MSO

The most recent MOT, carried out on 28 November 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, confirming that the vehicle presently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the seven‑year record the car has consistently cleared MOT, with the sole advisory being a near‑side headlamp aim that was flagged in November 2024. That issue is minor and easily corrected, indicating a generally stable maintenance pattern rather than any emerging mechanical deterioration. At ten years old the Polo has only 41 292 miles on the clock, which works out to just over 4 100 miles per annum – markedly below the industry average of around 10‑12 000 miles per year. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, which can be as consequential as high mileage. The modest wear on wear‑items such as tyres, brakes and suspension components is likely, but the vehicle may also be susceptible to age‑related degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from standing, and electrolyte loss in the battery. When you inspect the car, confirm that the headlamp aim has been corrected and that the beam is properly centred and does not dazzle oncoming traffic. Examine the tyre sidewalls for any cracking, dry rot or uneven wear patterns that could betray mis‑alignment or suspension wear; check the DOT code to ensure the tyres are not beyond six years old regardless of tread depth. Inspect the suspension bushes, ball joints and shock absorbers for any looseness, clunking or excessive play during a low‑speed drive, and listen for any metallic rattles that could indicate worn bushings or deteriorating mounts. The brake discs should be examined for surface rust, scoring or excessive thickness loss, and the pads for even wear; a brief pedal pulsation or shudder under moderate braking would suggest disc glazing or uneven pad deposition. Given the car’s age and low mileage, pay particular attention to time‑based items: the 12‑volt battery may have lost capacity and should be load‑tested, while all engine and gearbox fluids (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid) are likely due for replacement irrespective of mileage. Verify that the service book shows regular oil changes and that any timing‑chain service recommendations for the 1.2‑litre TSI engine have been observed. Finally, look for any signs of corrosion on the chassis, under‑tray and wheel arches, especially if the vehicle has been stored outdoors, and ensure the exhaust system is free of cracks or excessive rust that could affect emissions compliance. A thorough visual and road‑test appraisal covering these points will give you confidence in the Polo’s roadworthiness and future reliability.