2017 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · C3 NBK

A recurring theme of tyre wear and rear‑service‑brake binding runs through the MOT history, and the latest inspection on 15 July 2026 confirms that the pattern persists. The car recorded a pass on that date but carried advisories for off‑side rear service‑brake binding and near‑side rear inner tyre approaching the legal limit, while a separate failure on the same day flagged headlamp aim (nearside too low, off‑side too high) and a malfunctioning tyre‑pressure‑monitoring system. Earlier years show only advisory tyre‑wear items and, until 2020, front‑brake disc and pad wear, indicating a gradual accumulation of wear rather than a sudden deterioration. At roughly 140,600 mi over nine years the average annual mileage sits near 15,600 mi, well above the typical UK passenger‑car usage. The MOT schedule has been uninterrupted, suggesting the vehicle has been driven consistently rather than stored for long periods. Such mileage accelerates the consumption of wear items – tyres, brake discs, pads and suspension components – and raises the likelihood of fatigue in steering and drivetrain parts, even though no specific failures have been recorded in those areas. When inspecting the tyres, focus on the near‑side rear inner tyre and the off‑side front inner tyre that have repeatedly been noted as close to the legal tread limit and showing edge wear. Verify tread depth across the whole tyre, look for uneven wear patterns that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushes, and confirm that the TPMS indicator functions correctly after a reset. Any sidewall cracks, bulges or puncture‑related damage should be addressed promptly, as replacement of the affected tyres is likely required to meet road‑worthiness standards. The brake system warrants particular attention. The advisory on rear‑service‑brake binding suggests possible caliper or shoe drag that can cause premature wear or overheating; listen for a faint humming or feel for a slight pull when applying the rear brake. Front‑disc and pad wear advisories from 2020 mean the discs may be approaching the minimum thickness, so inspect for scoring, rust spots or uneven thickness, and test the pedal for a firm, non‑spongy feel without pulsation. Finally, the headlamp aim failure should be corrected by adjusting the headlamp units to the proper vertical and horizontal settings to avoid illegal illumination and ensure safe night‑time visibility.