2009 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · GF59 FBV

A clear pattern of front‑suspension wear and rear‑brake binding runs through the MOT record, with the most recent 19 December 2025 test still flagging an excessively worn off‑side front suspension arm pin and corrosion on both lower outer body sills, while earlier years show repeated front‑arm and shock‑absorber oil‑mist advisories and a 2021 failure for an off‑side rear service brake that was excessively binding. Although the car has managed to pass its latest test, the recurrence of these specific defects indicates that the suspension and rear‑brake system have been persistent points of concern rather than isolated incidents. At 109,955 mi on a 2009 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 6,500 mi, which sits squarely within normal usage for a vehicle of this age. The MOT history shows a test each year with no long gaps, suggesting the car has been kept on the road consistently rather than sitting idle for extended periods. This mileage level means consumables such as tyres, brake pads and suspension bushings are likely approaching the latter stages of their service life, and the recorded wear on the front suspension arm and rear brake components should be expected given the distance covered. When inspecting the car, pay particular attention to the front suspension arm pins and bushings for any looseness, clunking noises over bumps, or uneven tyre wear that could signal excessive play. The near‑side front shock absorber has been noted for light oil misting on three occasions; look for oil residue on the wheel rim or a spongy feel in the ride, and verify that the shock is still providing firm damping. The off‑side front outer track‑rod ball‑joint dust cover was recorded as insecure, so check the steering rack for any grit ingress, unusual steering feel, or premature wear of the ball joint itself. The rear‑brake binding reported in 2021, together with the parking‑brake efficiency failure the same year, warrants a thorough check of the rear brake calipers, pistons and parking‑brake mechanism for dragging, uneven pedal pressure or a need for adjustment. Examine the near‑side rear seat‑belt anchorage for corrosion that could have progressed beyond the advisory level, ensuring the strap seats firmly and the metal eyelet shows no signs of cracking. Finally, inspect all tyres for the inner‑edge damage and cracking noted in recent advisories, confirming that tread depth remains above the legal minimum and that the sidewalls are free of cuts or bulges before committing to purchase.