2015 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · DP65 UHT

The most recent MOT test, conducted on 22 January 2026, resulted in a Pass, although this followed a Fail recorded the day prior on 21 January 2026. The pattern of failure followed by immediate re-test and pass is common, but the items rectified between the two tests warrant close attention. The major defects cited on the failed test were both nearside and offside front lower anti-roll bar linkage ball joints, indicating excessive wear. These were presumably replaced prior to the re-test. The pattern across recent years suggests a clear and consistent deterioration of the front suspension and anti-roll bar components, with advisory notes on the nearside front anti-roll bar D-bush in January 2025, a deteriorating dust cover noted in January 2024, and dust cover ingress issues flagged on the offside in early 2024. Additionally, the 2026 test records advisories for thin front brake pads, a slightly distorted nearside front road wheel, and a defective rear exhaust mounting. The maintenance trend is therefore one of worsening condition at the front end, with brake consumables also approaching the end of their service life. With a recorded mileage of 97,495 miles over approximately eleven years, the vehicle has covered an average of around 8,863 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a car of its age and class. This moderate annual mileage suggests a balance of regular use and standing periods, which can produce mixed wear patterns. While regular driving keeps seals, brakes, and the drivetrain lubricated, the figures indicate the car has not been excessively worked, and there are no obvious signs of severe high-mileage abuse in the recorded history. The MOT records do not show any significant gaps in testing that would suggest long-term standing, and mileage progression between tests appears consistent. Nonetheless, at this odometer reading, certain age-related degradations become more probable regardless of annual use. Given the recurring front suspension defects, a prospective buyer should carry out a focused inspection of the anti-roll bar linkages, drop links, and bushes, ideally by rocking the front wheels side to side by hand to detect play, and by listening for clonking or rattling noises over speed humps and uneven surfaces during a test drive. The advisories for thin front brake pads and scored rear brake discs indicate imminent brake servicing; on the road, any pulsation through the brake pedal or shudder under heavy braking would suggest the discs have worn beyond their service limit or are suffering from uneven contact due to a binding caliper. The slightly distorted nearside front wheel should be examined for cracks or buckling, as a deformed wheel can cause steering vibration and uneven tyre wear, particularly on the nearside front tyre which has previously been flagged as worn on its edge. The defective rear exhaust mounting should be inspected by physically pushing the exhaust tailpipe to check for excessive movement, and listening for rattles on start-up or under load. Beyond the items flagged in the MOT history, a buyer of an eleven-year-old Polo with this mileage should also undertake general condition checks appropriate to its age. Tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking or perishing even if the tread depth appears adequate, as ageing rubber loses flexibility well before it wears out. The 12V battery should be tested for cranking performance, particularly given that MOT history shows intermittent use and short test cycles. Brake fluid, coolant, and gearbox or manual transmission oil are all subject to calendar-based degradation and should be checked or replaced in line with manufacturer schedules, regardless of recent service records. The handbrake mechanism, flagged for excessive movement in late 2022, should be re-examined to confirm the adjustment has held, and the rear calipers should be checked for binding after the advisory recorded at that time. Finally, verifying service book stamps and any supporting invoices will help confirm that the recent suspension and brake work has been carried out to a satisfactory standard, rather than being a minimal repair to clear the MOT.