2012 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · SA12 FNH

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a shift toward developing mechanical and rubber wear. While the most recent test in February 2026 at 90,230 miles passed, it introduced new advisories regarding an exhaust leak at the flexi-joint and damage to the offside front tyre. These issues, combined with persistent oil misting the rear shock absorbers, indicate that the vehicle is entering a stage where component service life is reaching its end. The mileage pattern is consistent with low-average annual use, averaging approximately 6,445 miles per year over its 14-year life. Between the tests in February 2024 at 81,805 miles and the February 2026 test at 90,230 miles, the car covered roughly 8,400 miles. This steady usage suggests the vehicle has not suffered from long periods of stagnation, which often leads to the accelerated degradation of rubber components such as the perished tyres and worn bushes seen in the earlier records. A buyer should specifically inspect the offside rear shock absorbers, as the light misting of oil has persisted since the March 2025 test at 87,352 miles. This indicates a failing seal that will eventually require replacement. The previous failure in 2023 due to excessively worn suspension arm bushes on both the nearside and offside front suggests these components were overhauled, but a physical check for lateral play or knocking knocks is necessary to ensure the wear has not returned. The exhaust flexi-joint leak noted in the February 2026 test requires attention as these leaks often worsen and lead to emission failures if ignored. Given the history of perishing and cracking tyres in both 2023 and 2026, the age of the remaining rubber should be verified for sidewall cracking, as the low mileage often masksrelated dry rot. The oil leak noted in 2023 was deemed non-excessive, but a visual inspection of the engine bay is advised to ensure no new weeping has developed.