2011 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Diesel · FR11 LPN

The vehicle shows a consistent history of passing MOT tests despite a clear pattern of reactive maintenance rather than proactive preventative care. The most recent test in May 2026 at 114,669 miles passed, though it flagged an offside front tyre worn to the legal limit and on the edge. This follows a period of relatively clean inspections between 2022 and 2025, suggesting the vehicle was well-maintained during those years. However, the historical data reveals recurring issues with the braking system and suspension that frequently required attention only after failing a test. At 114,669 miles over 15 years, the Polo averages approximately 7,600 miles per year, which is typical for a used car of this age. The mileage intervals between tests are stable, with roughly 7,000 to 13,000 miles covered between inspections. A significant concern occurred in December 2022 at 95,625 miles, where the vehicle failed due to a serious fluid leak in the nearside rear shock absorber and imbalanced rear brakes across the axle. These faults were addressed before the subsequent pass in early 2024, but the history indicates the rear suspension components are prone to significant wear. The record highlights a persistent struggle with brake adjustment and minor mechanical wear. Between 2019 and 2021, the car failed multiple times for parking brake inefficiency, excessive brake lever movement, and deteriorated anti-roll bar linkage covers. There is also evidence of early structural concerns, such as corroded coil springs on the front and rear noted in early 2021. While the vehicle is currently clear of these specific failures, a buyer should thoroughly inspect the current state of the rear brakes and the integrity of the shock absorbers, as these areas have historically been points of failure for this specific car.