2014 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · AV64 DZM

A persistent pattern of windscreen damage accompanied by a historical suspension failure and tyre intervention forms the core mechanical record of this twelve-year-old hatchback. The vehicle successfully navigated its latest test on 2025-09-10 resulting in a pass, though this was accompanied by a recurring minor defect noting that the windscreen is damaged without obstructing the driver view, an issue identically flagged in tests from 2019, 2020, and 2021. While the MOT history shows consecutive passes from 2021 through 2025 without major structural or mechanical flags, the 2020 testing event proved more severe, recording a dangerous failure for an offside front tyre below the legal tread depth, a nearside front tyre worn near the limit, and a major failure due to a serious fluid leak on the nearside rear shock absorber. With a recorded mileage of 45,023 miles accumulated over roughly twelve years, the car averages about 3,752 miles annually, establishing a decidedly low usage profile. This restricted mileage indicates lighter overall transit rather than continuous heavy-duty fleet operation, though prospective buyers must remain mindful that reduced annual running can occasionally correlate with periods of inactivity. The yearly MOT cadence remains uninterrupted, confirming that the vehicle has been presented for statutory testing on an annual basis without prolonged gaps or extended periods off the road. Targeted inspection should focus heavily on the areas previously flagged in the safety records, specifically beginning with an evaluation of the rear suspension setup. During a static walkaround and subsequent test drive, listen closely for any knocking or crashing noises emanating from the rear axle over speed humps or rough road surfaces, which could indicate lingering wear or degradation in the shock absorbers or mounting bushes. Inspect the condition of the front and rear tyres closely to ensure even wear patterns across the tread face, verifying that the previous tendencies toward edge wear or rapid depletion have not returned due to misaligned steering geometry. Finally, examine the glass thoroughly to assess the severity of the stone chip or crack noted across multiple annual inspections, ensuring the damage has not spread into the driver direct line of sight requiring a full replacement screen. Check that the steering tracks straight under braking and acceleration, and verify that the suspension dampening feels controlled and stable rather than overly bouncy. Cross-reference these physical checks against the accompanying documentation to confirm that all historical damper and tyre rectification work was completed to a satisfactory standard before finalising the purchase.