2020 Polestar 2 Pilot Plus EV AWD Electric · OV70 MLN

The most recent MOT test on 2025-11-20 resulted in a passing grade, with the vehicle meeting all roadworthiness standards. However, the test history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and a single failure, indicating that while the car is currently compliant, underlying issues have persisted or re-emerged. The 2024-12-09 MOT saw a failure for headlamp alignment defects alongside a persistent advisory of slight play in the offside rear wheel bearing, which was also noted in the 2024 test but not addressed. The 2023 MOT was clean, suggesting a brief period of stability, but the subsequent failures and advisories suggest a trend toward increasing wear or maintenance neglect. This inconsistency warrants careful attention during inspection, as unresolved bearing play and alignment issues can escalate into more severe mechanical failures if left unaddressed. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 55,493 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 9,249 miles, which is typical for a six-year-old electric vehicle in the UK. Given the EV’s lower maintenance burden compared to internal combustion engines—particularly in terms of oil changes, exhaust systems, and carbon deposits—the mileage alone does not suggest excessive wear on critical drivetrain or powertrain components. However, the consistent presence of wheel bearing play and headlamp alignment issues, even at moderate mileage, implies that the vehicle has either been subjected to prolonged periods of static use or has experienced suboptimal driving conditions that exacerbate these wear patterns. For an EV, standing for extended periods can accelerate bearing corrosion and misalignment, as the absence of dynamic load cycling accelerates lubricant breakdown and metal fatigue in rotating components. Given the recurring wheel bearing advisory and the potential for bearing failure to develop into a critical road hazard—such as wheel separation or sudden loss of steering control—it is essential to inspect the offside rear wheel assembly thoroughly. Look for signs of excessive play when the wheel is rotated by hand while the vehicle is supported off the ground, or listen for a grinding or whining noise during acceleration or braking, especially on rough roads. If bearing play is confirmed, the bearing unit should be replaced immediately, as further wear could lead to catastrophic failure. For the headlamp alignment defects, ensure the vehicle is driven at night to verify that the headlights are neither too high nor too low, as improper aiming can impair visibility and pose a risk to other road users. If the alignment remains persistently off, the headlamp assembly may need adjustment or replacement. For the broader physical inspection, given the vehicle’s age and moderate mileage, focus on the following critical areas. The tyres, while currently compliant, show significant edge wear, which may indicate underinflation, poor alignment, or excessive camber angles. Inspect the tyre sidewall for signs of cracking or perishing, which can occur even at low mileage due to the EV’s synthetic rubber compounds and prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or calipers, particularly on the offside rear, where bearing issues may have contributed to standing corrosion. Verify that the brake fluid is clear and free of contamination, as EV brake systems rely on hydraulic pressure, and fluid degradation can lead to reduced braking performance. Additionally, since the vehicle has been in use for several years, inspect the 12V battery and associated wiring for signs of corrosion or wear, especially around the battery terminals and connectors, as standing can accelerate these issues. Finally, ensure that all fluids—brake, coolant, and power steering—are topped up to manufacturer specifications and checked for leaks, as time-based degradation in synthetic fluids can compromise system integrity. If the vehicle has not been serviced recently, a comprehensive check of the electrical system, including the inverter and high-voltage components, may also be prudent, as EVs require more frequent attention to prevent battery degradation or charging system faults.