2014 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · DX64 WCL

A pattern of emerging suspension and brake wear defines the recent roadworthiness profile of this 2014 Volkswagen Polo. Across the eight recorded MOT tests spanning 2019 to late 2025, the vehicle has passed every examination without a single failure, and the earlier portion of that record (2019 through 2023) was notably clean, producing five consecutive passes with no advisories at all. The most recent test on 28 November 2025 continued that pass streak while introducing a cluster of advisories that warrant careful attention. Both front lower suspension arm rear bushes were flagged as worn (though not yet resulting in excessive movement), and both rear tyres were noted as slightly perished or cracked. This represents a shift from a previously unblemished record toward a more typical late-stage advisory profile, and any prospective purchase should treat this latest test as the starting point for closer physical inspection rather than a clean bill of health. With eight tests recorded against approximately 89,685 miles over twelve years, the Polo has accumulated mileage at an average rate of roughly 7,474 miles per year, which sits comfortably within typical parameters for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no significant gaps in the testing record that would suggest a multi-year period off the road, and the annual accumulation appears broadly consistent rather than demonstrating any sudden surges or long stationary intervals. The fact that the early tests were entirely advisory-free despite reasonable annual mileage suggests the consumable components were holding up well in earlier years, but the recent emergence of suspension, brake and tyre advisories is consistent with a car now entering the phase where rubber, bush and friction material components begin to require replacement as standard wear items. The suspension advisories deserve particular focus during any physical inspection or test drive. The front lower arm rear bushes on both sides were noted as worn but not yet failing, so listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end when traversing speed humps, uneven tarmac or potholes, and pay attention to any vagueness or looseness in the steering, particularly over mid-corner bumps where worn bushes typically telegraph themselves as a slight shimmy or delay. The 2024 advisory on the offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint showing slight play also relates to this front-end assembly, so a slow-speed pass over a rough surface is often the best way to expose deteriorating front suspension components. Given that two separate linkage and bush items have now been flagged within consecutive tests, the front suspension geometry is showing an age-related pattern that a buyer should expect to address in the near term. The brake-related advisories require similarly specific scrutiny. The 2024 test recorded pitted and scored rear brake discs along with a fluctuating offside front service brake, suggesting the caliper, disc or pad interface on that corner may not be returning evenly. On a test drive, feel for any pulling to one side under moderate braking, a pulsing or juddering sensation through the brake pedal, or any grinding or scraping noise from the front wheels. The 2020 advisory regarding handbrake travel with no reserve is also worth confirming has been resolved, as a handbrake that has crept further from its adjustment point can indicate rear cable stretch or drum/caliper mechanism wear. Finally, the perished rear tyres flagged in both 2024 and 2025 should be inspected physically for sidewall cracking, as recurring tyre advisories on the same axle across consecutive tests indicate ageing rubber that is unlikely to pass another inspection and should be budgeted for replacement regardless of remaining tread depth.