2015 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · AV65 CBF

The most recent MOT on 23 September 2025 was passed, and the six‑year record shows a consistent pattern of passing results with a series of recurring advisories rather than outright failures. The trend is essentially stable – the vehicle has not suffered any major safety‑critical defects, but the repeated notes on front shock absorber oil mist, tyre wear approaching the legal limit and a deteriorating front registration plate indicate areas that are not improving and will need attention before they become MOT‑fail items. At 106 040 miles the Polo has averaged just under 10 000 miles per year since its 2015 build, which sits comfortably within normal usage for a small family hatchback. There are no obvious long‑term storage periods or sudden mileage spikes that would suggest periods of neglect or excessive high‑speed running. The mileage figure therefore points to regular, moderate use, meaning wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components will be in line with age‑related expectations rather than accelerated by extreme mileage. When you inspect the car, give particular focus to the front shock absorbers. The repeated oil mist advisory suggests that the internal seals are beginning to leak, which can lead to reduced damping, a noticeable “soft” feel over bumps and occasional clunking noises as the damper pistons lose fluid pressure. Have a qualified suspension technician check the shock absorber bodies for oil seepage and assess the condition of the surrounding mounting bushes and coil springs; replacement of the shocks may be prudent within the next few thousand miles to avoid a future MOT failure. The tyres have been flagged as close to the legal tread limit on both the near‑side rear and, in earlier years, the near‑side front; inspect the tread depth across the whole tyre set, look for uneven wear patterns that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension components, and be prepared to replace any tyre that is below 3 mm tread or shows sidewall cracking, especially given the vehicle’s age. Beyond the specific advisories, conduct a thorough age‑related check. Verify that the front registration plate is fully legible and consider replacing it if the lettering is fading, as it can become a failure point. Examine the windscreen for any growing cracks or chips that could impair visibility or compromise structural integrity. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding – standing periods can cause corrosion that leads to shudder under braking. Test the 12 V battery voltage and check for any signs of sulphation, as an 11‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Finally, confirm that routine fluids – engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and gearbox oil – have been changed in accordance with the manufacturer’s calendar intervals; fluid degradation can occur even on low‑mileage cars and is a common source of hidden wear. A comprehensive visual and road‑test appraisal covering these points will give you a realistic picture of the Polo’s roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance costs.