2012 Volkswagen UP 1.0L Petrol · GF12 VHC
2012 Volkswagen UP (1.0L, petrol). First registered 01 Aug 2012. Recorded mileage 126,345 miles. MOT expired on 09 Sept 2026. Taxed until 01 Aug 2027.
- Make & Model
- VOLKSWAGEN UP
- Year / Origin
- 2012 · Maidstone
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 09 Sept 2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Aug 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 126,345 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- PETROL · 1.0L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
GF12 VHC Key Findings
- 4 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 11/09/2025
- 126,345 miles recorded at latest MOT
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
GF12 VHC MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
4 MOT tests are recorded for this 2012 Volkswagen Up (GF12 VHC) between August 2022 and September 2025.
The record contains 4 passes and 0 failures.
The record shows no MOT failures, although 1 advisory notice notes an item to monitor.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Tyres (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 1 advisory notice is 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.
GF12 VHC Mileage History
- 15/08/202267,629 mi
- 25/08/202384,004 mi+16,375 mi
- 28/08/2024108,270 mi+24,266 mi
- 11/09/2025126,345 mi+18,075 mi
Average of roughly 19,096 miles per year across 4 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Volkswagen Volkswagen Up! Mk1
Our database tracks 5 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Average
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.
Digital Service History
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Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A cautious recommendation based on a cle
Given the mileage of 126,345, the primary focus should be on the engine's long-term wear and the condition of the drivetrain. You should request evidence of a timing belt and water pump replacement, as these are critical maintenance items for this age and mileage of Volkswagen engine. Check for any signs of oil leaks or excessive smoke during a cold start.
Negotiate based on the vehicle's mileage, which far exceeds the average for this model. Ensure the clutch does not slip and the gear changes are smooth, as high-mileage city cars often show significant wear in these areas. Verify that the service history supports the mileage recorded in the MOT tests.
The 999cc petrol engine is designed for efficiency, typically offering low fuel consumption and falling into a lower insurance group. Annual road tax for this 2012 model is generally affordable, making it a cost-effective choice for urban commuting.
However, maintenance costs may increase due to the high mileage. Expect to budget for more frequent replacements of wear-and-tear items such as brake pads, discs, and tyres. The estimated annual running cost, including fuel, tax, insurance, and basic maintenance, is approximately £1,100-£1,400.
Start by inspecting the tyres and suspension. While the 2022 advisory for a worn nearside front tyre was resolved, suspension arms are a known common failure point across the wider VW Up population and should be checked for play or perished bushings.
Check the headlamps for clarity and function, as these are another frequent MOT failure reason for this model. Finally, perform a thorough check of the interior wear; at 126,345 miles, the driver's seat bolster and steering wheel may show significant signs of use, which can help verify the consistency of the mileage.
This 2012 black Volkswagen Up has covered 126,345 miles, which is significantly higher than the model average. The MOT history from 2022 to 2025 is relatively clean, with no failures and only one advisory regarding a tyre in 2022. While the vehicle has been tested consistently, the high mileage on a small 999cc engine is the primary consideration for any buyer.
The Volkswagen Up has a respectable aggregate MOT pass rate of 85.3%, with the most common issues relating to tyres, suspension arms, and headlamps.
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
Common Problems: VOLKSWAGEN UP
Known issues reported by owners and MOT testers.
- ASG Automated Gearbox Issues(Moderate)
The automated manual gearbox (ASG) is jerky in traffic, slow to engage drive, and prone to clutch actuator failures. The manual gearbox is far more reliable.
- Ignition Coil / Misfire(Moderate)
The 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine can suffer from ignition coil failures leading to misfires, rough idling and poor fuel economy. Coils are inexpensive but should be replaced in sets.
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VOLKSWAGEN UP Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
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Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2012 model year cars.
- ASG Automated Gearbox IssuesModerate
The automated manual gearbox (ASG) is jerky in traffic, slow to engage drive, and prone to clutch actuator failures. The manual gearbox is far more reliable.
- Ignition Coil / MisfireModerate
The 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine can suffer from ignition coil failures leading to misfires, rough idling and poor fuel economy. Coils are inexpensive but should be replaced in sets.
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