2002 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · SN02 AHF

The 1.2-litre petrol engine is one of the more economical units in the Polo range, typically returning around 40–45 mpg in mixed driving, though real-world figures for a car of this age will depend heavily on condition. Road tax for a 2002 petrol Polo falls into a low bracket given its sub-1.4-litre engine, but exact VED rates should be checked on the current DVLA tables. Insurance is likely to sit in a low group, keeping premiums modest, though parts such as age-related rubber components, exhaust sections, and electrical items can add up. Estimated annual running cost is £800–£1,100, accounting for fuel, tax, insurance, and the higher likelihood of maintenance work on a 24-year-old car.

Given the Polo model's most common MOT failure reasons across the 671,964 vehicles analysed — tyres, engine MIL (malfunction indicator lamp), and ball joint wear — these are the priority areas to inspect on this specific car. Check all four tyres for even wear and sufficient tread depth, as tyre failures are the single most common issue on this model. Inspect the engine management light operation and have any diagnostic codes read, as an inoperative MIL is the second most frequent failure point. Pay particular attention to the front suspension ball joints for play or deterioration, which is the third most common failure cause. Beyond these model-specific points, examine the bodywork for rust around the wheel arches, sills, and rear hatch — common issues on early-2000s Polos — and check that the 1.2 engine starts cleanly from cold, as these units can develop sensor and cooling system issues with age.