2016 Volkswagen Polo 1.4L Petrol · B24 HJB

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance record shows a worsening trend regarding front-end components. The most recent test in December 2025 at 58,677 miles identified a coolant leak and oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber. This follows a recurring issue with the nearside front suspension arm ball joint which was flagged for play in the December 2024 test at 55,534 miles, indicating that this specific component has not been addressed despite repeated warnings. The mileage profile is consistently low for a ten-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 5,800 miles per year. Usage patterns appear stable over the last three years with roughly 3,100 miles driven between the December 2024 and December 2025 tests. While low mileage generally reduces wear on the drivetrain and engine, long stationary periods can lead to degradation of rubber components and corrosion on metal surfaces, as evidenced by the pitted and scored brake discs noted in 2023 at 52,618 miles. A buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the front suspension to ensure the ball joint and shock absorber have finally been replaced, as these faults have persisted for over a year. The newly reported coolant leak requires immediate investigation to determine the source of the failure and prevent engine overheating. Additionally, the rear tyres should be checked for uneven wear, as the 2024 advisory noted they were wearing out of shape, which often suggests an alignment issue or worn suspension bushings.