2015 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · RX13 BEC

The Volkswagen Polo in question demonstrates a mixed but ultimately concerning maintenance record, with the most recent MOT test on 13 May 2026—just two months prior to today—showing no defects. This suggests the vehicle currently meets minimum roadworthiness standards, though the preceding history reveals a pattern of avoidable failures. The near-identical mileages for the 2025 tests (73,592 and 73,593 miles) imply the vehicle was likely driven only briefly between tests, yet it still accumulated three serious faults: worn front brake discs, a binding rear brake, and severely degraded suspension bushes on both front lower arms. While the 2024 and 2026 tests were clean, the 2025 failures indicate recurring neglect of critical components, particularly the suspension and brakes, which are not addressed in the latest pass. The mileage progression of roughly 7,155 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the abrupt gap between the 2024 (68,479 miles) and 2025 (73,593 miles) tests—just under five months—suggests the car was either stored or driven infrequently during that period. The 2024 failure, however, stands out as an isolated incident tied solely to tyre tread depth, a minor issue easily rectified. The 2025 failures, by contrast, point to deeper mechanical oversight, particularly the suspension and braking systems, which were flagged simultaneously on both sides of the vehicle. This clustering of faults suggests either a lack of proactive maintenance or repeated deferral of necessary repairs. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system, focusing on the front lower arm bushes—both near and offside—which were deemed excessively worn in 2025. The binding near-side rear brake indicates potential caliper or hydraulic issues, while the pitted front brake discs from the same test warrant assessment for uneven wear or potential warping. Given the history of tyre-related failures, the current tread depths should be verified, along with any signs of uneven wear that could imply alignment or suspension misalignment. Structural corrosion, particularly around wheel arches and suspension components, should also be examined, as this is a common failure point in vehicles of this age. The absence of recent major faults does not negate the need for these checks, as the record suggests past issues were not consistently addressed.