2010 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · FT10 EWZ

The 2010 Volkswagen Polo presents a mixed roadworthiness picture. The most recent MOT, conducted on 21 August 2025 at 61,498 miles, passed but carried notable advisories: a defective nearside headlamp lens, a rear service brake system described as only just met and likely needing adjustment or repair, and corrosion on the nearside front sill. Comparing this to the clean passes recorded in August 2022 at 50,733 miles and August 2023 at 53,361 miles, the maintenance trend has clearly worsened over the past two years. The vehicle has gone from defect-free tests to a pass with multiple flags, suggesting attention has slipped recently. The mileage profile tells an unusual story. Between August 2023 and August 2025, the car covered just 4,340 miles over two full years, averaging roughly 2,170 miles annually. That is a sharp drop from the already modest long-term average of approximately 3,844 miles per year. Such a sudden reduction in use raises the possibility of extended periods standing still, which can accelerate corrosion, dry out rubber seals, and cause brake discs to surface-rust. The nearside sill corrosion flagged in 2025 may well be a direct consequence of prolonged inactivity rather than high-mileage wear. The braking system deserves close scrutiny in any pre-purchase inspection. The August 2024 test at 57,157 miles flagged worn and pitted front brake discs, and the following year's test found the rear service brake barely passing. Pitted discs reduce braking efficiency and often point to neglected pad changes or aggressive riding. A buyer should have the front discs, rear calipers, and handbrake linkage inspected for binding or uneven wear. The anti-roll bar linkage dust cover failure noted in the failed August 2024 attempt also warrants checking, as a compromised cover allows dirt ingress and accelerates joint wear. Structurally, the corroded nearside front sill is the most concerning finding. On a 16-year-old supermini, sill corrosion can indicate deeper structural compromise if left untreated. A buyer should probe the affected area for perforation and check the inner sill and jacking points. The headlamp lens defect is minor but worth verifying for moisture ingress. Overall, this Polo has a solid middle-period record but shows signs of neglect in its most recent chapter. A thorough underbody and brake inspection is essential before committing.