2017 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · CV67 DVC

The most recent MOT test passed in February 2026, but the vehicle's history reveals a concerning trend of declining maintenance discipline. While the 2024 test was clean, the subsequent years have seen failures for both major suspension defects and dangerous tyre tread depths, alongside recurring advisories for exhaust and braking system issues. This pattern suggests a reactive maintenance style where repairs are only undertaken once a component reaches a critical or illegal state, rather than being serviced preventatively. With 67,480 miles recorded over approximately nine years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,500 miles per year. This is considered typical usage for a small hatchback and indicates the vehicle has not been subjected to excessive heavy-duty mileage. However, because the mileage is relatively low for its age, you should be wary of age-related degradation. Components such as rubber suspension bushes, coolant hoses, and various seals may be perishing due to time and environmental exposure rather than mechanical wear, which can be just as detrimental to long-term reliability. During your test drive, you should listen closely for any knocking, clunking, or hollow thudding sounds when navigating uneven road surfaces or speed bumps. This is essential given the previous failure of the lower suspension arm bushes, which can cause steering vagueness and poor handling if not correctly addressed. Additionally, pay attention to the tyres; the history of uneven wear on the inner edges suggests potential issues with wheel alignment or tracking. Ensure all tyres have adequate tread depth and show uniform wear across the entire contact patch to avoid immediate replacement costs. Finally, inspect the underside of the vehicle for signs of corrosion or fluid leaks. The advisory regarding a corroded exhaust sleeve clamp may result in an audible rasping or increased engine noise under load, so listen for any changes in the exhaust note. You must also verify the condition of the rear brake pipes, as the previous advisory for corrosion and swollen coatings indicates a risk of future hydraulic failure. Ensure the brake pedal feels firm and consistent, and check that the bonnet latch operates smoothly without excessive force, as a stiff latch can be a significant inconvenience.