2002 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · CW52 CLJ

Corrosion on the rear coil springs and several suspension arms has been a recurring theme in the MOT record, appearing on every test since 2021 and persisting through the latest inspection on 28 October 2025, which was passed but flagged with three corrosion advisories. The pattern suggests progressive rust on the sub‑frame and rear suspension rather than an isolated defect, and while the vehicle remains road‑legal, the repeated notes indicate that the structural integrity of those components should be closely examined before purchase. With 51,768 miles logged over a 24‑year lifespan, the average annual mileage sits at roughly 2,150 mi, markedly lower than typical usage for a car of this age. The MOT history shows no large gaps in testing, implying the vehicle has been driven regularly enough to meet the annual test requirement, yet the low mileage points to periods of light use or extended storage. Mechanically, low mileage reduces wear on engine and drivetrain internals, but it does not arrest age‑related corrosion, which is evident in the suspension advisories. When inspecting the rear suspension, feel for any looseness or clunking when the car is driven over potholes or speed bumps; excessive bounce, uneven rear ride height, or a noticeable pull to one side under braking can indicate that the corroded coil springs or the rear trailing arm have lost stiffness. Examine the front lower arm for play in the ball joint and check the condition of the bushings – rust‑induced weakening often manifests as a knocking sound when cornering. A visual inspection should look for surface rust flaking off the arms and any signs of cracked or deformed spring coils. The brake hose on the rear left side showed slight corrosion at the ferrule, so a test‑drive should include a firm, consistent pedal feel and a check for any fluid seepage around the hose connection. The tyre advisories from 2020 and 2021 highlight inner‑edge wear close to the legal limit; inspect the tyre tread depth across the width and look for sidewall bulges or cuts that could accelerate wear. Finally, the minor windscreen damage recorded in 2018 and 2021 should be examined for any spreading cracks or water ingress, especially around the damaged zones, as compromised glass can affect structural rigidity and visibility in adverse weather.