2014 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · GD14 FPG

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 May 2026, was passed but returned two advisories – a light mist of oil on the nearside front shock absorber and a poor condition of the rear exhaust silencer. Over the preceding six years the vehicle has shown a mixed pattern: early tests in 2021 and 2022 were clean, a single light failure in 2023 for a registration‑plate lamp, a minor suspension arm bush wear advisory in 2024, and a cluster of tyre, exhaust and lighting advisories in 2025, including a failed test for an inoperative reversing lamp. While no major safety‑critical defects have persisted, the recurrence of tyre perishing, exhaust leaks and a developing shock‑absorber oil mist suggests a slight deterioration rather than a steady improvement in overall maintenance. At 48,396 mi the Polo averages roughly 4,000 mi per year, which is considerably below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 000 mi annually for a vehicle of this age. The low mileage points to periods of light use or extended storage, which can be as consequential as high mileage. Prolonged standing accelerates rubber perishing, battery sulphation, brake‑disc corrosion and can allow moisture ingress into suspension bushings and exhaust joints. Conversely, the modest wear on drivetrain components may mean that major mechanical parts such as the engine, gearbox and differential have retained much of their original life, provided the car has been regularly serviced. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the tyre condition: the MOT notes slight damage, cracking and perishing on both front tyres and the nearside rear, plus a nail in the off‑side front tyre. Verify tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm on all four wheels, inspect sidewalls for dry rot, bulges or exposed cords, and consider replacing the set if any signs of ageing are evident. Examine the front suspension for any clunking, uneven ride height or excessive bounce that could indicate a failing shock absorber seal or worn arm bushings; the oil mist on the nearside shock suggests a potential loss of damping performance. The exhaust system shows a minor clamp leak, defective central mounting and a deteriorating rear silencer – listen for rattles or hissing at idle, watch for black smoke on acceleration, and ensure the vehicle meets emissions standards after any repair. Confirm that all external lighting – reversing lamp, registration‑plate lamp and any other indicators – operates correctly, as previous failures have been recorded. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑usage profile, time‑based checks are essential. Inspect the 12 V battery for voltage and cranking performance; a battery older than three years may need replacement. Look for surface rust on the chassis, under‑body, wheel arches and suspension mounts, especially if the car has been stored outdoors. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed within the recommended intervals (typically every two years for brake fluid and coolant). Examine the brake discs for rust spots, scoring or uneven wear and ensure the pads have sufficient thickness. Finally, request the full service book and any receipts for recent tyre, suspension or exhaust work, and consider a comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to confirm that the identified advisories have been remedied and that the car is fit for continued road use.