2011 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · FW11 FAM
2011 Volkswagen Polo (1.2L, petrol). First registered 04/08/2011. Recorded mileage 108,586 miles. MOT valid until 29/10/2026. Taxed until 01/09/2026.
- Make & Model
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO
- Year / Origin
- 2011 · Lincoln
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 29/10/2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01/09/2026)
- Recorded Mileage
- 108,586 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.2L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
- Fuel Type
- Petrol
- Year
- 2011
- Engine
- 1198cc
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
FW11 FAM Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 30/10/2025
- 108,586 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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FW11 FAM Mileage History
- 26/10/202257,432 mi
- 25/10/202367,648 mi+10,216 mi
- 17/10/202490,494 mi+22,846 mi
- 22/10/202490,503 mi+9 mi
- 30/10/2025108,586 mi+18,083 mi
Average of roughly 16,981 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
FW11 FAM MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2011 Volkswagen Polo (FW11 FAM) between October 2022 and October 2025.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 30 October 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (4 issues), Lighting (3 issues), Suspension (2 issues), Tyres (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 5 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Offside Rear Position lamp with a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning (4.2.1 (a) (ii))”; “Front Inner Brake pad(s) less than 1.5 mm thick (1.1.13 (a) (ii))”; “Offside Front Anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (5.3.4 (b) (ii))”.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution unless a comprehensive service history is provided. While the most recent MOT is clean, the 2024 failure reveals a period of deferred maintenance on mechanical components.
When inspecting this Polo, your priority should be verifying the service history. The 2024 MOT failure showed multiple issues (brake pads, discs, bearings, and shocks) which suggests the previous owner may have neglected routine maintenance between intervals. Ask for receipts confirming that the front brake components and shock absorbers were replaced after the October 2024 failure.
Check the condition of the tyres thoroughly, as the previous MOT noted a dangerous cut reaching the cords on the offside rear. During the test drive, listen for any knocking or knocks from the front suspension, which could indicate that the anti-roll bar linkages or wheel bearings identified in the past were not properly addressed or are failing again.
The 1198cc engine is designed for urban efficiency, typically delivering between 45-52 MPG depending on driving style. It falls into a relatively low-to-mid insurance group, making it an affordable choice for younger drivers or commuters.
Maintenance costs for Volkagens are generally higher than for Japanese counterparts but lower than premium-tier German brands. You should budget an annual running cost of approximately £900-£1,100, accounting for fuel, basic tax, and standard wear and tear consumables.
Pay close attention to the front suspension area. The 2024 history notes a rough nearside front wheel bearing and a misting offside shock absorber; check for any play in the wheels or visible oil leaks on the dampers. Also, inspect the anti-roll bar linkages, as these were previously flagged for perished dust covers.
Ensure the braking system has been fully overhauled. The 2024 record showed imbalanced brakes and worn pads/discs. Check for any pulls to one side under braking. Finally, verify that all exterior bulbs are functional, as the car previously failed on multiple position and multiple-source lamps.
This 2011 Volkswagen Polo sits at 108,586 miles, which is slightly above the national average for its age. While it enjoyed a period of clean MOT records between 2022 and 2023, the 2024 test highlighted several significant failures involving suspension, braking, and lighting. The 1.2L petrol engine is generally robust, but the high mileage suggests it is entering a more maintenance phase.
The Mk5 generation Polo with the 1.2 engine is known for its mechanical simplicity and reliability, but is prone to sensor issues and suspension bushing wear at high mileages.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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