2016 Volkswagen Polo 1.0L Petrol · LB12 LAL

A clear pattern of underbody corrosion and wear-related advisories, alongside one significant suspension failure, defines the mechanical narrative of this 2016 Volkswagen Polo. Across its recorded MOT history the vehicle has largely passed, but the 2022 test exposed a major defect on the offside front lower suspension arm rearmost bush, which had split and was flagged as excessively worn. Since that failure, subsequent tests have been advisory-only, with the 2025 test noting corrosion starting on the rear axle and the most recent pass on 2026-04-18 recording general surface corrosion underneath alongside pitted brake discs on both axles. The trend is one of progressive underbody deterioration rather than isolated events, and the recurrence of corrosion-related advisories over consecutive years suggests the structural integrity of the underside warrants close scrutiny. Mileage accumulation over the vehicle's ten-year life averages approximately 9,189 miles per year, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a car of this age and type. Annual mileage appears reasonably consistent across the recorded test points, with no obvious extended gaps in testing that would imply long periods off the road. There are, however, two tests recorded on the same date in late 2022, indicating a failure immediately followed by a re-test, while the gap between the 2023 and 2025 entries suggests the vehicle may have missed a test cycle during that period. Mechanically, this consistent usage means the Polo has not been subjected to either the prolonged standing that accelerates corrosion in underseals and brake components, or the very high mileage that accelerates wear on clutches, suspension bushes and engine internals. The brake disc advisories at the most recent test are nevertheless consistent with a vehicle that has been driven regularly, as pitted discs develop from normal everyday braking over time. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the underbody condition, especially around the rear axle and any suspension mounting points, as corrosion advice in consecutive recent tests typically indicates progression rather than static deterioration. On a ramp or with the wheels off the ground, inspect the front lower suspension arms and their rear bushes for any perishing, splitting or movement, as this is the exact component that previously failed on the nearside side. Surface rust on brake discs can lead to judder under braking, so during a test drive the vehicle should be assessed at low speed for any vibration through the brake pedal or steering wheel, and the discs themselves checked for lipping and excessive runout. The steering rack advisories from 2021 are also worth noting; any clonking, slack or vague feedback through the steering wheel, particularly over rough surfaces, would warrant further investigation of the inner track rod joints. Underneath the vehicle, the general surface corrosion flagged in 2026 should be examined for any localised deep pitting, particularly on subframe mounting points, brake and fuel pipes, and the rear axle beam itself. Use a torch and ideally a jack to look closely at boxed sections and seams where moisture collects, and tap suspect metal to identify any structural weakness rather than just surface scaling. On the road, listen for suspension knocks or rattles over speed humps and uneven surfaces, particularly from the rear axle area where corrosion is establishing itself. Finally, confirm that the brake discs noted as pitted have not worn beyond the minimum thickness, and check that the handbrake holds firmly on an incline, as rear brake condition on a Polo of this age and mileage is a common area of wear.