2014 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · MM64 OGP

The most recent MOT, carried out on 3 June 2026, was passed but recorded a number of advisories: both front brake discs are worn, pitted or scored; the nearside front outer tyre carries a cut that does not yet breach the ply; the off‑side rear outer tyre shows early cracking or perishing; and the nearside front shock absorber exhibits light oil misting. Over the past two‑year period the vehicle has moved from several dangerous failures – notably front tyre tread depths below the legal 1.6 mm in early 2023 – to a clean pass in 2024 and a series of passes with only non‑dangerous advisories in 2025 and 2026. The pattern suggests a stabilising maintenance regime, yet the recurrence of front‑shock oil, suspension arm wear and tyre damage indicates that underlying wear items have not been fully addressed and will likely require corrective work in the near future. At 68,780 miles recorded for a 2014 model the average annual mileage is roughly 5,700 miles, well below the UK average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation can be a sign of gentle, low‑stress driving, but it also raises the possibility of prolonged periods of inactivity. Extended standing periods accelerate tyre perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of suspension bushings and brake components, which is reflected in the observed tyre cracking and the front‑shock oil misting. The mileage figure alone does not reveal any sudden spikes, so the wear observed is more likely calendar‑related rather than the result of high‑speed or high‑load use. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension and braking system. Inspect the nearside front lower arm and its bushings for excessive play or a worn pin; any clunk or knock when the steering wheel is turned at low speed may indicate the previously noted excessive wear. The front shock absorber should be examined for oil leakage around the damper rod and for loss of rebound firmness – a soft, squishy feel or uneven bounce on a test‑drive would confirm deterioration. The brake discs, already scored, should be measured for thickness; if they are within a few millimetres of the minimum safe limit, replacement will be required soon to avoid loss of braking efficiency. Tyre condition must be verified: the front tyres should have at least 1.6 mm tread depth and no cuts reaching the cords, while the rear off‑side tyre should be checked for age‑related cracking, as perishing can lead to sudden failure even if tread depth appears adequate. Beyond the recurring defects, the car’s age warrants a thorough calendar‑based inspection. Examine the tyre sidewalls for dry rot or cracking, especially on the rear tyre that was noted as perishing. Verify the condition of the 12 V battery – a load test or checking for a voltage above 12.6 V at rest will reveal any hidden sulphation from long idle periods. Inspect the undertrays and under‑body for rust, particularly around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, as corrosion can compromise structural integrity. Finally, confirm that the brake fluid has been changed within the last two years, the coolant is fresh and free of debris, and that the service book shows regular oil changes; any lapse in these time‑based services would merit a full fluid flush before the vehicle is put back into regular use.