2009 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · SD09 WSE

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a shift toward worsening mechanical and structural degradation. The most recent test in February 2026 at 111,424 miles identified several advisories that were present in the previous year, including a persistent exhaust leak, worn front suspension arm bushes, and corroded rear coil springs. While the car passed, the recurrence of these faults suggests that the owner is performing the minimum repairs required to pass the test rather than addressing underlying preventative maintenance. At 111,424 miles over 17 years, the Polo has averaged approximately 6,500 miles per year, which is consistent with typical low-mileage usage. The data shows a steady usage pattern, with roughly 7,700 miles driven between February 2024 and February 2025, and another 6,400 miles in the year leading up to the February 2026 test. This consistent mileage indicates the vehicle is not sat for long periods, which explains the gradual aging of rubber components and metalwork seen in the record. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension system, as the tester has repeatedly flagged corroded rear coil springs and worn front inner arm bushes across 2025 and 2026. These issues can lead to poor handling or sudden component failure. The exhaust system also requires attention; the record shows a history of corrosion and leaks from the flexi-section and backbox joints dating back to 2024, indicating the system is nearing the end of its functional life. Physical attention should also be paid to the structural integrity of the chassis given the noted corrosion on the springs and previous de-lam issues. The 2025 failure due to a tyre at the 1.6mm limit suggests a lack of basic pre-test checks. Ensure the offside headlamp lens and rear window washer are fully functional, as these have been recurring points of failure or advisories in recent years.