2017 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · BL17 AAX

The most recent MOT test recorded on 20 October 2025 resulted in a failure due to two Major defects concerning the front suspension, specifically that the rear bushes of both the offside and nearside front lower suspension arms were found to be excessively worn. Although an advisory on rear brake pad wear and rear brake disc wear was also recorded on the same date, these alone would not have caused a failure. The vehicle subsequently passed on the same date, indicating that the necessary rectification work was completed prior to re-test. The overall maintenance trend shows a clear and concerning deterioration when comparing this result against the previous three MOTs. In 2022 and 2023 the vehicle passed without any advisories, followed by a 2024 test where advisories were raised for rear brake pad wear and front suspension arm bushes that were worn but not yet resulting in excessive movement. The progression from advisory status in 2024 to Major failure in 2025 demonstrates that the front suspension component wear was identified early and left unresolved, allowing the condition to advance to a level that presented a direct risk to roadworthiness. With 49,524 miles recorded over approximately nine years, this Polo has covered an average of around 5,500 miles per year, which is notably below the typical annual mileage for a vehicle of this age and class. This low usage figure suggests either predominantly short urban journeys or extended periods of standing idle between uses. Mechanically, low annual mileage of this nature reduces wear on high-mileage components such as the engine internals and gearbox but introduces specific age-related concerns. Vehicles that spend long periods stationary are particularly susceptible to brake caliper seizure due to corrosion on the sliding mechanisms and on the rear brake drums, both of which can lead to binding or uneven friction material wear. Similarly, exposure to moisture without regular driving can accelerate corrosion on underbody components, exhaust mounting rubbers, and suspension steel elements. The recurring advisories for rear brake pad wear and brake disc wear over the last two MOTs strongly indicate that the braking system is nearing the end of its service interval. A prospective buyer should physically inspect the remaining brake pad friction material thickness across all four corners and measure the rear brake disc wear, paying particular attention to any lip formation or surface scoring. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for any grinding, squealing, or pulsating sensation through the brake pedal that could suggest worn pads, glazed discs, or a binding caliper. Given that the front suspension bushes were flagged in 2024 and subsequently failed in 2025, it is essential to verify exactly what rectification was carried out, whether genuine Volkswagen or quality aftermarket components were fitted, and whether supporting invoices or receipts are available. The front suspension should be carefully inspected for any clunking or knocking noises over uneven road surfaces, vagueness in steering response, or uneven front tyre wear patterns such as inner-edge feathering, which would suggest the geometry has been compromised by worn bushes or that the components fitted are already deteriorating. Beyond the recorded MOT defects, the low-mileage usage profile necessitates several additional age-related inspections. Tyre sidewalls should be examined closely for perishing or cracking caused by UV exposure and age-related rubber degradation, even if the tread depth remains legal, and a general check of the manufacturing date code on the sidewall is advisable as tyres older than six years may require replacement regardless of wear. The 12V battery is highly likely to be approaching the end of its typical service life, so a load test or verification of the battery registration date is recommended, as a failing battery can cause electrical faults and starting issues. Furthermore, brake fluid should be renewed every two years regardless of mileage, engine coolant typically every four to five years, and the timing belt, if fitted to this model, inspected for age-related degradation. Finally, the underside of the vehicle should be examined for standing corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points, exhaust hangers, and brake lines, and the exhaust system checked for internal corrosion or blowing at the joints that may arise from infrequent use and condensation accumulation within the silencer.