2012 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · GF12 UDP

The most recent MOT on 26 Nov 2025 records a failure – a near‑side rear brake pipe is leaking from the wheel‑cylinder and the rear registration‑plate lamp is out. Both are safety‑critical items and will need immediate repair before the car can be legally driven. Across the last four years the car has shown a pattern of modest wear items: in 2023 the front lower suspension arm pin was worn, the front brake disc showed scoring, the rear shock absorbers had light oil mist, and the rear exhaust box was corroded. In 2022 the rear tyres were close to the legal tread limit. These issues have not escalated into major faults, but they indicate that suspension, braking and tyre components are approaching the end of their service life. The trend is essentially stable – the vehicle has passed its MOTs each year with only minor defects, but the recent brake‑pipe leak suggests a new, more serious problem is emerging. There is no clear sign of rapid deterioration, but the brake system now requires attention. Mileage of 134,710 mi on a 2012 model averages about 9,600 mi per year, which is typical for a car of this age. It does not point to unusually heavy use, but the cumulative distance means consumables such as brakes, shocks and tyres are likely to be nearing replacement intervals. For a buyer, the first checks should be: Inspect the rear brake pipe, wheel cylinder and surrounding hydraulic lines for leaks or corrosion; confirm the brake fluid level and condition.