2015 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · LM15 CSZ

The most recent MOT test on 25 July 2026 resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, which represents a positive turnaround from the immediately preceding test. That earlier examination on 23 July 2026 had failed on major defects for excessive wear on both the offside and nearside front suspension arm rear pins or bushes, defects that had been flagged as advisories the year prior in 2025. The progression from advisory wear in 2024 and 2025 through to major failure in mid-2026, followed by an immediate pass just two days later, strongly suggests that corrective suspension work was undertaken between those two tests, likely replacement of the bottom arm rear bushes or the complete lower suspension arms. This pattern indicates that the maintenance trend is currently stable but should be monitored, as the suspension components on a 2015 Polo of this mileage are reaching a stage where surrounding components such as anti-roll bar links, drop links, and top mounts may also be approaching the end of their service life. With 110,424 miles recorded over approximately 11 years, this Polo has averaged around 10,000 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and consistent with regular daily driving. The mileage progression across the MOT records is steady, with no large gaps suggesting long periods of standing or unusually rapid accumulation that might point to motorway use or commercial application. However, at this overall mileage, mechanical wear on consumable items such as clutch, dual-mass flywheel if fitted, timing chain components on the petrol engines, and exhaust mounting points should be anticipated. The 2024 advisory noting reduced damping effect from both front shock absorbers also hints at general wear of the front suspension damping, which may have been addressed alongside the more recent bush replacement. The most significant recurring concern in the MOT history centres on the front suspension, with advisories appearing in 2022, 2024, and 2025 before culminating in the major failures in 2026. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to any knocking or clonking noises from the front end when traversing speed bumps, potholes, or uneven road surfaces, as well as vague or imprecise steering feel, wandering at speed, or uneven tyre wear across the front axle which can indicate suspension geometry issues stemming from worn bushes. It would be prudent to confirm exactly what work was carried out to achieve the July 2026 pass, request the corresponding invoice, and inspect the new components for any early signs of play. Given the 2024 advisory on front shock absorbers, the buyer should also assess ride quality for excessive bouncing, wallowing over undulations, or a harsh, crashy response, all of which suggest the dampers may still need replacement. The 2025 advisory on parking brake efficiency below requirements is another item worth verifying; on a test drive, ensure the vehicle holds reliably on an incline without excessive lever travel, and listen for any binding or dragging from the rear calipers that could indicate seized handbrake mechanism. Beyond the recorded defects, given the age and mileage of this vehicle, a prospective buyer should undertake a thorough physical inspection. Check the sidewalls of all tyres for cracking or perishing caused by age, particularly on a nearside wall, and verify that the fitted tyres are of matching age codes. Examine the brake discs for any lipping on the outer edges and for surface corrosion indicative of infrequent use, especially given the 2022 advisory on pitted rear discs. Inspect the 12V battery for any signs of corrosion around the terminals, as batteries over five years old are prone to failure. Verify the service history to confirm regular oil and filter changes at appropriate intervals, and check the condition and age of the brake fluid, coolant, and if applicable the manual transmission or dual-clutch gearbox fluid, as these degrade over time irrespective of mileage. Finally, with the rear brake pads and discs flagged as wearing in 2022, confirm that these have been renewed and inspect the exhaust system for corrosion at the mounting points and joints, which is common on a vehicle of this age exposed to British winter conditions.