2018 Volkswagen Polo 1.0L Petrol · LD18 AXV

The most recent MOT test on 24 March 2026 resulted in a fail with serious concerns, although a simultaneous pass was also recorded, suggesting the vehicle was presented on the same day with defects that were subsequently rectified. The failure items included a dangerous nearside front tyre with a structural bulge on the inside sidewall, a nearside front track rod end ball joint with excessive play, and an offside front track rod end ball joint dust cover that had deteriorated beyond serviceable condition. When reviewing the broader four-year history, a clear pattern emerges around the front suspension and steering geometry. Dust cover deterioration on the track rod ends was noted as a minor item in April 2024 and escalated to a major failure by March 2026, with a further major defect for excessive ball joint play appearing at the same test. This indicates a worsening rather than stable maintenance trend, particularly in the front suspension and steering linkage. Earlier advisories in March 2023 noted front brake pads wearing thin, while 2022 and 2024 both recorded front tyres worn close to the legal limit on the outer edge, suggesting a recurring tracking or geometry issue that is consuming front tyres prematurely. The rear tyres also showed perishing and cracking on both sides in 2024, which is consistent with age-related rubber degradation rather than wear. The recorded mileage of 42,651 miles over an eight-year service life equates to an average of roughly 5,331 miles annually, which is well below the typical mileage for a vehicle of this age and likely reflects periods of light use or extended standing. The mileage accumulation between MOTs appears modest and steady rather than showing sudden bursts of high use, which is mechanically favourable for the engine and drivetrain but raises separate concerns regarding components that degrade with calendar age rather than use. The advisories and minor defects already recorded on tyre walls and dust covers tend to align with this pattern of low mileage combined with age, as rubber components and protective covers deteriorate regardless of how little the vehicle is driven. For a prospective buyer, the immediate priority is to verify that the track rod ends, both inner and outer, have been fully replaced with new units rather than refurbished, and to inspect the boots for clean fitting without splits or perished lips. On a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension over speed humps or rough road surfaces, and pay attention to vague steering response, uneven tyre wear returning quickly, or any vibration through the steering wheel which would suggest residual play or alignment issues. The front tyres should be examined closely for inner shoulder wear, which was the original advisory pattern, as this often points to incorrect tracking, worn suspension bushes, or a slightly bent component following the recent ball joint failure. The nearside front tyre presented with a dangerous bulge on the inside sidewall, which if replaced should be confirmed as a new premium brand tyre rather than a budget or part-worn item, and the wheel itself should be checked for any kerbing damage or lateral run-out that may have caused the original failure. Beyond the documented defects, the age and low mileage profile warrants several physical inspections that are not always captured on an MOT. The 12V battery should be load tested, as vehicles of this age commonly suffer degraded battery capacity from infrequent use and standing periods. Brake discs are prone to corrosion and calipers to binding when a car is used only sparingly, so the car should be rolled in neutral with the engine off to confirm the wheels rotate freely without scraping, and a low-speed brake test should reveal a firm pedal without pulling to either side. All brake fluid, coolant, and if applicable transmission fluid should be confirmed as within service life by date rather than mileage, as calendar-based degradation can compromise braking performance and corrosion protection even on a low-mileage example. Finally, inspect the exhaust system for any rust or weakened mounting rubbers, check the bodywork and undertray for standing corrosion particularly around wheel arches and sills, and verify that the service book contains consistent stamps or that digital service records support the apparent low usage, ensuring the vehicle has received its time-based servicing rather than purely mileage-driven intervals.