2017 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · OV17 LUH

The most recent MOT on 4 August 2026 was passed, but it carried advisories concerning slight damage or perishing of both rear tyres. Over the preceding three years the vehicle has shown a mixed pattern: a failure in August 2023 for a non‑functioning tyre‑pressure monitoring system and ineffective windscreen wiping, a failure in August 2022 for an insufficient washer supply, and a series of recurring advisories from 2024 onward for rear brake disc wear and rear‑tyre perishing. Since the 2023 failures the car has consistently passed the test, albeit with the same tyre‑perishing notes, indicating that the overall maintenance trend has stabilised but that wear items are persisting and will need attention. At 60 766 miles recorded for a 2017 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 6 750 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope. This suggests the car has not been subjected to excessive high‑speed or long‑distance wear, but the relatively modest utilisation also raises the possibility of prolonged periods of inactivity. Periods of standing can accelerate tyre perishing, promote corrosion on suspension bushes and under‑tray areas, and lead to battery sulphation, all of which are reflected in the current advisories. Prospective buyers should give the rear tyres immediate scrutiny. Look for sidewall cracking, tread delamination, or uneven wear patterns that could indicate internal damage; a tread depth below 1.6 mm would necessitate replacement, and even with acceptable depth the perishing noted in three consecutive MOTs suggests the rubber may be approaching the end of its service life. On a test drive listen for any thumping or shuddering that could be caused by the pitted rear brake discs highlighted in 2024 and 2025; a pulsating pedal or squealing noise would indicate the discs are nearing the limit of safe resurfacing and should be measured for thickness. Verify that the tyre‑pressure monitoring system illuminates correctly and that the dashboard warning clears after a short drive, confirming the sensor issue has been rectified. Also confirm that the windscreen washer pump delivers a steady spray and that the wiper blades clear the glass without streaking, as these were previously flagged. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough age‑related inspection is prudent. Check the under‑tray for signs of rust or damage, remembering that an advisory in 2022 noted it was not fitted – a missing or poorly mounted tray can allow water ingress to the chassis. Inspect suspension mounting points, ball joints and bushings for corrosion or excessive play, and examine the exhaust system for cracked pipes or rusted mounts. Test the 12‑volt battery voltage and perform a load test to rule out sulphation from idle periods. Finally, confirm that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals; if service stamps are missing, a full fluid change and a timing belt or chain inspection (as per the Polo’s service schedule) would be advisable before committing to purchase.