2017 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · CE17 EYL

Persistent issues with the braking system and tyre degradation define the recent mechanical history of this vehicle, which successfully passed its most recent MOT on 17 October 2025. While the vehicle maintained a clean record from its first test through 2023, the 2024 inspection highlighted a cluster of advisories concerning the offside rear brake efficiency and binding, alongside perished rubber on three of the four tyres. The transition from a defect-free status to multiple component advisories in a single year suggests that the vehicle has entered a phase where age-related component fatigue is becoming more prevalent than in its earlier years. Accumulating only 21,047 miles over a nine-year period results in an average annual usage of approximately 2,339 miles, a figure significantly below the national average. This low-mileage profile often indicates that a vehicle has spent substantial periods stationary, which can lead to the accelerated perishing of rubber components such as tyres, seals, and bushings, even if the mechanical drivetrain has seen minimal operational stress. Prospective buyers should be aware that while the engine and transmission have not been subjected to high-mileage wear, the vehicle’s long-term storage or infrequent use patterns may have contributed to the specific brake and tyre issues noted in the 2024 test record. During your test drive, pay close attention to the rear braking performance, as the 2024 record flagged concerns regarding the offside rear service brake binding and parking brake efficiency. Listen for any dragging noises or a metallic scraping sound from the rear wheels while driving at low speeds, and check for any uneven heat buildup on the rear wheels after a short journey, which could indicate a caliper that is not fully releasing. Additionally, ensure the handbrake holds the vehicle firmly on a steep incline, as the previous efficiency advisory suggests the mechanism may require adjustment or a potential overhaul of the rear brake components to ensure consistent operation. The presence of perished tyres in the 2024 record necessitates a thorough physical inspection of all four tyre sidewalls for cracking or structural degradation, regardless of tread depth. Even if new tyres have been fitted since that inspection, verify that the suspension components, particularly the rear axle bushes and shock absorbers, are not showing signs of premature wear or fluid leaks, as these are common points of failure in vehicles that experience long periods of inactivity. During the test drive, listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, which would indicate that the suspension linkages or bushings have lost their integrity due to age and environmental exposure.