2012 Volkswagen Polo 1.4L Petrol · AX12 TUO

A recurring pattern of rear service brake binding characterized the 2023 and 2024 inspections, although the most recent test on 2025-11-22 was a clean pass with no defects. This indicates a period of intermittent braking issues that appear to have been rectified. Aside from these specific concerns, the long-term record is relatively stable, with the majority of tests resulting in passes without advisories. The recorded mileage of 77,214 miles is low for a fourteen-year-old vehicle, averaging roughly 5,515 miles per year. This usage pattern suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy daily commuting or long-distance motorway stress, which generally preserves the mechanical state of the engine and gearbox. However, low-mileage vehicles can be prone to the seizing of moving parts, such as brake calipers, if they are not used frequently enough to clear surface corrosion. During a test drive, specific attention should be given to the rear braking system to ensure there is no residual binding, which would manifest as excessive heat from the rear wheels or a lack of free-rolling movement. The buyer should also monitor for any steering drift or vibration, as the 2024 advisory for a front tyre worn bald on the inner edge suggests a potential issue with wheel alignment or worn suspension bushes. The exhaust system should be listened to closely for any rasping or loud drones during acceleration, following the minor leak recorded in 2023. A visual inspection of the current tyre treads is required to confirm that the previous inner-edge wear has been resolved and that the tyres are wearing uniformly, ensuring the steering geometry is now correct.