2016 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · D11 WAU

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT in October 2025, though this followed a failure due to a significantly worn offside rear brake disc. Analysis of the historical data suggests a reactive rather than proactive maintenance trend. There are recurring issues with the braking system and suspension components that have appeared as advisories or failures over several years, indicating that essential wear-and-tear items are often left until they reach a critical state or fail an inspection. With a recorded mileage of 76,278 miles over approximately ten years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,600 miles per annum. This represents a typical usage profile for a small hatchback, meaning the drivetrain and engine should be in a stable condition provided the service intervals have been adhered to. However, this level of mileage is sufficient for the natural degradation of rubber components, such as suspension bushes and tyre compounds, which is reflected in the MOT history. A primary area of concern for a prospective buyer is the braking system. The history reveals a dangerous failure for rear brake pads in 2021 and a subsequent failure for a worn rear disc in 2025. Most notably, a 2021 advisory mentions a nearside front brake caliper mounting slide being replaced with a bolt. This is a non-standard repair that may compromise the caliper's ability to slide freely, potentially leading to uneven pad wear or binding. During a test drive, the buyer should feel for any brake shudder or a spongy pedal and inspect the front discs for uneven scoring. Attention should also be paid to the front suspension and exhaust system. Recurring advisories regarding the front suspension arm ball joints and bushes suggest these components are nearing the end of their service life. Listen for metallic clunks or knocks when traversing uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring. Additionally, the 2024 advisory regarding the central exhaust sleeve indicates potential corrosion or structural failure in the exhaust line; a physical inspection for leaks or excessive noise under acceleration is recommended to ensure the system remains airtight and secure.