2010 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · FT10 OMW

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend indicates a pattern of reactive rather than proactive repairs. While the most recent test in July 2025 at 146,830 miles resulted in a pass, it followed a failure involving steering rack inner joint play and headlamp alignment. The history of critical mechanical components being addressed only after failure, combined with recurring issues with exhaust emissions and braking adjustments, suggests the owner only addresses faults once they threaten to prevent an MOT certificate. At 146,830 miles, the Polo has averaged approximately 9,177 miles per year, which aligns with typical UK usage for a sixteen-year-old car. The mileage progression shows consistent annual use, with roughly 2,300 miles covered between July 2023 and June 2024, and another 3,420 miles between June 2024 and July 2025. This steady accumulation suggests the vehicle is used regularly, making it subject to standard wear on age-related components. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the steering system, as the play in the inner joints noted in 2025 can lead to unpredictable handling and premature tyre wear. The suspension also requires scrutiny; the oil misting on all four shock absorbers recorded in 2024 indicates seals are nearing the end of their life. Furthermore, the braking system has shown a history of struggle, ranging from low vacuum assistance in 2023 to excessive parking brake movement and pitted discs in 2024. The buyer should verify that the exhaust system is truly sealed and that the emissions failures from 2024 have been fully rectified, as these often point to underlying engine management or catalytic converter issues.