2009 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · EO09 EOB

The most recent MOT inspection on 19 February 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle shows a concerning trend of recurring mechanical deterioration. While the vehicle has avoided outright failures in recent years, the frequency and nature of the advisories suggest a pattern of progressive wear in the suspension and braking systems. Specifically, the recent presence of a minor defect regarding a severely deteriorated offside front outer drive shaft constant velocity boot, alongside persistent advisories for worn suspension arm bushes and pitted brake discs, indicates that maintenance has been reactive rather than preventative. The overall maintenance trend is worsening, as several issues noted in previous years have either persisted or escalated into more significant defects. With 137,707 miles recorded over approximately 17 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 8,100 miles per year. This is considered typical for a vehicle of this age and suggests a consistent usage pattern rather than extreme high-mileage driving or long periods of inactivity. From a mechanical standpoint, this level of mileage is consistent with the wear observed in the consumables, particularly the suspension components and drivetrain boots. While the mileage itself is not excessive, the cumulative effect of nearly 140,000 miles means that major component fatigue is expected, and the current MOT history confirms that several wear-and-tear items are reaching the end of their functional lives. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the suspension and drivetrain during a test drive. The repeated advisories for worn front suspension arm bushes on both the nearside and offside suggest that the vehicle may exhibit knocking or clunking noises when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps. Furthermore, the deteriorated drive shaft CV boot is a critical concern; if left unaddressed, the loss of lubrication will lead to the failure of the drive shaft joint itself, which often manifests as a rhythmic clicking sound during low-speed turns. You should also monitor the braking performance closely. The advisory regarding pitted and scored front brake discs, combined with a previous history of a binding offside rear brake, suggests that the braking system may suffer from uneven deceleration or a shudder through the pedal under heavy braking. Beyond the recorded MOT defects, the age of the vehicle necessitates a thorough physical inspection of rubber and fluid components. Given the 2009 manufacture date, you should inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur due to age even if tread depth remains legal. Check the engine bay for signs of fluid degradation or leaks, particularly around the cooling system and various seals, as rubber hoses and gaskets naturally perish over nearly two decades. It is also advisable to verify the service history to ensure that essential time-based maintenance, such as cambelt replacements and brake fluid flushes, has been carried out, as these are critical for the long-term reliability of a Volkswagen Polo with this mileage profile.