2013 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · LA13 PFE

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, with a clean MOT result on 2026-05-05 at 53,812 miles. The most recent test shows no critical failures, though three tyres exhibit minor cracking or perishing—specifically the offside front, nearside rear, and offside rear—classified under 5.2.3 (d) (ii). This indicates early signs of rubber degradation, likely due to age rather than excessive wear, but all tyres remain above legal limits. The maintenance trend over the past two years has been stable, with no new major defects emerging since the 2024 test, suggesting consistent upkeep in key areas such as brakes, steering, and suspension. The recorded mileage of 53,812 miles across 13 years equates to an average of just over 4,100 miles per year, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. This suggests either infrequent use or extended periods of inactivity, both of which can contribute to issues like tyre dry rot, brake caliper binding, and electrical system degradation. A significant gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests—over 2,700 miles accumulated in one year—followed by another 5,192 miles in the subsequent year, indicates a sudden increase in usage. While this does not necessarily imply poor condition, it raises questions about whether the vehicle was previously stored or used sparingly before being driven more regularly. Of particular concern are the recurring suspension and drivetrain issues flagged in earlier tests. In May 2025, the nearside front constant velocity boot was severely deteriorated, a known precursor to joint failure and potential drive shaft dislodgement if left unaddressed. Additionally, play in the steering rack inner joint was noted, indicating possible wear in the steering system that could affect handling precision and safety. These faults were not repeated in the 2026 test, but their presence in prior records signals that the vehicle may have experienced inconsistent maintenance. A buyer should inspect the CV joints for grease leakage, check the steering rack for play under load, and examine the suspension bushes and coil springs for fatigue. The current tyre condition also warrants immediate attention—replacement is advisable before the next MOT to avoid failure due to further deterioration.