2011 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · FV61 KPL

The vehicle shows a worsening maintenance trend characterized by increasing frequency and severity of mechanical advisories. While the most recent test on 10 December 2025 at 135,704 miles resulted in a pass, the tester flagged several significant issues including corroded coil springs on both sides and a severely deteriorated offside front outer drive shaft CV boot. These findings suggest that while the car remains legal, the underlying mechanical condition is deteriorating as components reach the end of their service life. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 9,000 miles per year. The record shows steady usage from 34,440 miles in 2014 up to the current 135,704 miles. There are no significant gaps in testing history, though the interval between the 2023 test at 120,818 miles and the 2024 test at 135,695 miles shows a relatively high annual usage of nearly 15,000 miles, which likely contributed to the increased wear on tyres and shock absorbers noted in those periods. A prospective buyer must prioritize a thorough inspection of the suspension and steering systems. The MOT history reveals a long-standing issue with steering rack inner joint play, first noted in 2020 and recurring through 2022. The recent report of corroded coil springs and a failing CV boot indicates that the front suspension and drivetrain require immediate attention. Furthermore, the recurring advisories regarding leaking shock absorbers, dating back to 2019, suggest that the damping system is nearing total failure. Brake and tyre maintenance also appear inconsistent. The record shows multiple instances of binding brakes and tyres worn to the legal limit, specifically in 2017, 2018, 2021, and 2024. The December 2025 test also noted perishing and cracking on the nearside tyres. Given the history of exhaust corrosion and the recent structural advisories regarding springs, a physical inspection should focus on checking for significant chassis rust and ensuring all recent advisories have been addressed by a mechanic.