2011 Volkswagen Polo 1.4L Petrol · SM11 XHP
2011 Volkswagen Polo (1.4L, petrol). First registered 12 Jul 2011. Recorded mileage 81,905 miles. MOT valid until 26 Jan 2027. Taxed until 01 Aug 2027.
- Make & Model
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO
- Year / Origin
- 2011 · Edinburgh
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 26 Jan 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Aug 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 81,905 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.4L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
SM11 XHP Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 22/01/2026
- 81,905 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring windscreen items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
SM11 XHP MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2011 Volkswagen Polo (SM11 XHP) between January 2024 and January 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 22 January 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Windscreen (4 issues), Tyres (3 issues), Brakes (3 issues), Lighting (3 issues), Exhaust & Emissions (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 11 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Nearside Front Track rod end ball joint dust cover insecure so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (2.1.3 (g)”; “Nearside Front Headlamp aim unable to be tested (4.1.2 (b))”; “Offside Front Track rod end ball joint dust cover insecure so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (2.1.3 (g) ”.
SM11 XHP Mileage History
- 26/01/202472,198 mi
- 17/01/202577,297 mi+5,099 mi
- 27/01/202577,297 mi
- 22/01/202681,905 mi+4,608 mi
- 22/01/202681,905 mi
Average of roughly 4,877 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Volkswagen Volkswagen Polo Mk5 (6R/6C)
Our database tracks 5 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution and verify the repair history. While the mileage is consistent for the age, the pattern of MOT failures immediately prior to passing suggests recurring issues that require close investigation.
When inspecting this specific Polo, your priority should be to identify the exact cause of the MOT failures in January 2025 and 2026. Since the provided data does not list the specific defect codes for those failures, you must ask the seller for the advisory notes or repair invoices to determine if these were minor items like bulbs and wipers, or more significant mechanical issues. Check the service history meticulously to ensure the 1.4cc engine has had its oil changed regularly. Given the mileage is over 80,000 miles, verify if the timing belt and water pump have been replaced, as this is a critical maintenance item for this VW engine variant at this interval.
The 1390cc engine is generally fuel-efficient, typically offering between 45-55 MPG depending on driving conditions. As an older small-engine hatchback, tax bands and insurance groups are usually moderate, though costs will vary based on your specific profile.
Maintenance costs for the Polo are relatively standard, though older vehicles may require more frequent consumable replacements. You should expect annual running costs to be between £800 and £1,100, including fuel, tax, and routine servicing.
Focus your physical inspection on the components that typically cause the MOT failures seen in the history, such as brake components, tyres, and lighting. Because the car failed twice in the last year before passing, look for any signs of uneven tyre wear or suspension play that might indicate unaddressed underlying issues.
Examine the underside for signs of oil leaks or corrosion, which are common on 15-year-old vehicles. Ensure the engine idles smoothly and the gearbox engages without hesitation, as the 1.4 petrol engine can be sensitive if not properly maintained.
This 2011 Volkswagen Polo features a 1.4L petrol engine and has covered approximately 81,905 miles, which is relatively average for its age. While the most recent MOT passed with no recorded defects, the vehicle has a history of failing tests before passing in both 2025 and 2026. The silver finish is common for this model, but the data indicates a potential for a reactive maintenance approach.
No aggregate data is available for this specific model, but the 2011 VW Polo is generally considered robust if well-maintained.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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