2015 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · BK65 RHJ

Recurring failures regarding the parking brake mechanism and persistent tyre wear issues define the recent MOT history of this Volkswagen Polo. While the vehicle successfully passed its most recent inspection on 15 May 2026, the record reveals a pattern of mechanical instability, specifically a repeat failure involving an inoperative nearside rear parking brake that occurred in both 2025 and 2026. This indicates that the initial repair may have been insufficient or that the underlying caliper or cable assembly is prone to seizing, necessitating a thorough inspection of the rear braking system to ensure full functionality and prevent future test failures. Accumulating 95,547 miles over an eleven-year lifespan results in an average of approximately 8,686 miles per annum, a figure consistent with standard usage for a vehicle of this class. The testing frequency has been regular, with no significant gaps or periods of prolonged inactivity that would typically suggest issues related to standing, such as seized components or degraded seals. However, the consistent flagging of tyre wear on the edges suggests that the vehicle may have been subjected to sustained alignment issues or high-load cornering, which places additional stress on the suspension geometry and steering components over time. During your test drive, pay close attention to the rear braking performance. Apply the handbrake firmly on a slight incline to confirm it holds the vehicle securely without excessive travel in the lever, and listen for any grinding or scraping noises from the nearside rear wheel that might indicate the disc pitting noted in the latest advisories. If the pedal feels spongy or the vehicle pulls to one side under braking, this may point to further degradation of the rear discs or a sticking caliper that has not been fully rectified. The historical advisories regarding worn suspension arm bushes, while not flagged in the most recent test, warrant a physical check of the vehicle's handling characteristics. Listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as these are primary indicators of worn rubber bushings or ball joints. Furthermore, given the repeated advisories for edge wear on multiple tyres, ensure the vehicle tracks straight on a flat road without steering wheel vibration or a persistent pull, as this will confirm whether the wheel alignment has been corrected or if there is underlying wear in the steering rack or suspension linkages that could lead to premature tyre replacement.