2012 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · FR12 NWJ

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the history shows a trend of reactive maintenance rather than proactive care. While it passed its most recent test in November 2025 at 81,235 miles, it failed just six days prior with multiple significant defects. The tester identified a steering rack with free play and a slight oil leak, alongside a severely deteriorated offside front upper anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover. These issues indicate that mechanical components are only addressed once they reach a point of failure or visible wear. The mileage profile is consistently low for a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 5,800 miles per year. There is a notable increase in usage between August 2022 at 51,196 miles and November 2024 at 70,678 miles, where the car covered nearly 20,000 miles in just two years. However, the low annual mileage prior to this period often correlates with the degradation of rubber components and seals due to infrequent use, as evidenced by the recurring failures related to the washer pump and electrical systems over the years. A buyer must inspect the steering system closely to ensure the oil leak on the rack does not lead to internal failure or increased free play. The recurring history of minor faults, including failed windscreen washers, blown bulbs, and inoperative lamps, suggests a lack of attention to basic vehicle upkeep tasks. Furthermore, the 2023 failure for significantly worn front brake discs and a binding rear service brake indicates that the braking system may be neglected, necessitating a thorough check of the current pad thickness, disc, and caliper operation to ensure no new issues have emerged.