2016 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · LP65 XOW

The most recent DVSA test on 27 January 2026 recorded a failure on the basis of an excessively mobile parking‑brake lever, with an accompanying advisory that the nearside rear tyre shows slight damage, cracking or perishing. Earlier in the same month a pass was logged with the same tyre advisory, indicating that the tyre condition alone did not prevent a pass, but the parking‑brake defect was deemed unsafe. Over the preceding five years the record was clean apart from tyre‑wear advisories in 2020 and 2025, so the overall trend is moving from a stable, largely fault‑free history to the emergence of a genuine safety defect that needs correction before the vehicle can be considered road‑worthy. At ten years old the Polo has logged 53,873 miles, averaging roughly 5,400 miles per annum. This is well below the typical UK average of 10‑12 000 miles a year and suggests either very light daily use or extended periods of inactivity. Low annual mileage reduces cumulative wear on engine, gearbox and suspension components, but it also raises the likelihood of age‑related degradation such as rubber perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of metal parts that have sat idle for long spells. No evidence of a sudden mileage surge is present, so the wear pattern should be relatively uniform across the drivetrain. Prospective buyers should give the tyres immediate attention. The nearside rear tyre’s cracking or perishing indicates rubber hardening, which can lead to reduced grip, tread separation and a higher risk of a blow‑out, especially under cornering or wet conditions. Inspect the sidewalls for dry rot, bulges or embedded objects, and verify that the tread depth is at least 1.6 mm across the entire width. During a test drive listen for any thumping, vibration or a change in handling that could signal uneven tyre wear or a failing sidewall. The parking‑brake lever’s excessive movement points to an improperly adjusted or possibly worn linkage; check that the lever holds the vehicle securely on a slight incline and that there is no spongy feel. A quick visual inspection of the rear brake drums or disc caliper (depending on specification) for uneven wear or corrosion can reveal whether the adjustment issue is causing uneven braking forces. Given the vehicle’s age and modest mileage, a thorough age‑related inspection is advisable. Examine the suspension bushings, ball joints and shock absorbers for signs of cracking, leaking oil or excessive play, as these components can deteriorate even with limited use. Verify the condition of the 12‑volt battery, looking for swollen cases or low cranking voltage, and consider a load test. Check the brake discs or drums for surface rust, glazing or scoring, and ensure the pads have adequate material left. Finally, confirm that all fluid reservoirs (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid) contain fresh, correctly coloured liquids and have been serviced within the manufacturer’s time intervals, as fluids can degrade over calendar time regardless of mileage. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Polo’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance it may require.