2006 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · LR06 DXL

The 2022‑03‑29 MOT at 128,692 miles records a failure, rendering the 2006 Volkswagen Polo presently non‑roadworthy. Repeated failures on the near‑side rear shock absorber, anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint and exhaust emissions indicate a deteriorating maintenance pattern rather than a stable or improving condition. The vehicle’s mileage has risen from 64,643 miles in the 2013 test to 128,692 miles in 2022, an average annual increase of roughly 6,435 miles, which aligns with typical usage for a 20‑year‑old car. Between the 2020‑11‑12 test at 125,881 miles and the 2022‑03‑29 failure the mileage climbed 2,811 miles in four months, suggesting a period of more intensive use, while earlier intervals such as 2019‑11‑01 to 2020‑11‑12 showed only a 2,922‑mile gain over a full year, indicating periods of lighter driving. Recurring advisories on suspension components – light misting of oil on both off‑side and near‑side shock absorbers, excessive wear on the anti‑roll bar linkage ball joints and a serious fluid leak on the near‑side rear shock – point to persistent hydraulic wear that a buyer must verify in person. Binding rear brakes and excessive movement of the parking brake lever recorded in 2020 and 2018 respectively signal potential caliper or drum issues that require close inspection. Deformed off‑side integral body structure and inadequate sill weld repairs noted in 2020 suggest possible structural corrosion that should be examined for rust penetration. A buyer should therefore inspect the condition of the shock absorbers, anti‑roll bar linkages and associated bushes, test the brake system for binding or pull, verify tyre tread depth and wiper performance, and check the exhaust for Lambda and CO readings, while also looking for rust on the sills and any evidence of structural repairs.