2022 Volkswagen Polo Style TSI 1.0L Petrol · LS22 OLG

The latest MOT test on 31 March 2026 passed with no defects recorded, but this followed an immediate failure the previous day due to a dangerous offside front tyre with tread below 1.6mm and a major nearside rear tyre cut exposing the cords. The 2025 test passed with an advisory noting the offside front tyre was worn close to the legal limit, indicating a pattern of tyre neglect rather than a sudden issue. The maintenance trend appears reactive rather than proactive, with tyres only addressed when they reached failure point, which raises concerns about broader deferral of routine upkeep. At 41,871 miles over roughly four years, the annual usage of around 10,500 miles is typical for a car of this age, suggesting neither excessive wear nor prolonged inactivity. This mileage profile implies normal consumption of brakes, suspension components, and fluids, but does not rule out standing periods that could contribute to issues like brake disc corrosion or battery degradation if the vehicle was unused for extended stretches between regular use. Prospective buyers should prioritise a thorough inspection of all four tyres, checking for uneven wear, side wall damage, or cracking that could indicate alignment or suspension issues, as well as verifying the age of the tyres even if tread depth is now legal. On a test drive, listen for suspension clunks or knocks over rough surfaces, which may signal worn bushes or shock absorbers, and assess braking for shudder or pulling, which could reveal warped discs or sticking calipers. Given the car’s age, also inspect the 12V battery health, as original units often degrade by four years, and check for signs of fluid leaks or corrosion, particularly around the exhaust, brake lines, and under the bonnet, as these are common with moderate mileage and time. Finally, review the service history to confirm timely oil changes, brake fluid replacements, and other calendar-based maintenance, as the MOT history alone does not reflect non-safety-related servicing. Pay attention to the condition of brake discs and pads, as the tyre wear pattern suggests the car may have been driven with underinflated or misaligned wheels, accelerating brake and suspension wear. A professional pre-purchase inspection is advisable to verify the resolution of the recent tyre failures and to assess whether other components have been similarly neglected.