2018 Volkswagen Polo 1.0L Petrol · FP18 ABX

The 2018 Volkswagen Polo most recently passed its MOT on 27 August 2026, though the examiner recorded two advisories that warrant close attention. The first relates to wear on the front brake discs, noted as not yet excessive, while the second flags wear to the rear bushes of the front suspension arms on both sides. The maintenance trend appears broadly stable but with a slowly worsening pattern in specific areas. The same suspension arm bush advisory appeared on the 2024 test, confirming a recurring issue that has not yet progressed to a failure but is clearly degrading. It is also worth noting that the vehicle failed an MOT on 19 September 2023 due to deteriorated track rod end ball joint dust covers, with a major defect recorded on the nearside front; the vehicle was repaired and subsequently passed the very next day. The recurrence of the suspension advisory over two consecutive tests and the past steering component failure suggest that the front-end mechanical condition should be prioritised during any physical inspection. With 23,629 miles recorded over approximately eight years, this Polo has covered only around 2,954 miles annually, which is notably low for its age and indicative of either light use or extended periods of standing. Such low annual mileage typically results in minimal mechanical fatigue on internal combustion components, but it carries its own set of risks. Long periods of inactivity encourage corrosion on brake discs, binding of brake calipers due to seized pistons, and perishing of rubber components such as tyres, drive belts and bushes. Equally, a standing battery will lose charge over time and suffer from sulphation, often leading to premature failure. Prospective buyers should bear in mind that the recorded MOT mileage may not always reflect the vehicle's full usage history, particularly if long standing periods have occurred between tests. Given the recurring advisory on the rear bushes of the front suspension arms, a careful inspection is essential. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the suspension when traversing speed bumps, potholes or uneven road surfaces, and feel for vagueness or imprecise turn-in response through the steering. Uneven or feathered tyre wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges of the front tyres, may indicate that the bushes are allowing excess movement. The front brake discs, though not yet excessively worn according to the advisory, should be examined for lipping on the circumference and any surface corrosion, especially given the low mileage which often promotes standing rust rather than even wear from regular braking. Inspect the discs for any pulsing under heavy braking, which would suggest disc thickness variation or run-out, and ensure that the calipers are releasing cleanly without any residual binding. Beyond the recorded advisories, several age and standing-related checks are advisable. Inspect all four tyres carefully for sidewall cracking or perishing, which is common on low-mileage vehicles of this vintage; the rubber may be original and approaching the end of its safe service life regardless of tread depth. Verify the date code on the 12V battery, as an eight-year-old original unit is almost certainly due for replacement, and check the condition and service history of the timing belt, water pump, and brake fluid, the latter of which typically requires renewal every two years regardless of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature. Examine the exhaust system for corrosion, particularly at mounting points and joints, and look for any signs of fluid leaks beneath the vehicle on inspection. Finally, confirm a full and consistent service history with stamped intervals, ensuring that time-based items such as the cambelt and coolant have been replaced in line with manufacturer schedules.