2009 Volkswagen Polo 1.6L Diesel · ST59 FTP

The most recent MOT test for this 2009 Volkswagen Polo was conducted on 2022-10-24, resulting in a pass with several advisories that indicate ongoing but manageable issues rather than a deterioration in overall roadworthiness. The vehicle’s maintenance history shows a pattern of recurring but not severe defects, particularly in the suspension and braking systems, with the most critical failures from 2022-07-26—such as excessively worn suspension arm bushes and a serious front shock absorber leak—being addressed prior to the latest test. While there was a notable failure in 2020-07-28 due to headlamp aim issues, these were minor and easily rectified, and the subsequent MOTs have been clean or only marked with advisories, suggesting a stabilisation of the vehicle’s condition after the earlier major issues were corrected. The recorded mileage of 120,600 miles for a vehicle aged 17 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,094 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. Lower mileage could imply periods of inactivity or lighter use, potentially contributing to standing corrosion or fluid degradation, while higher mileage would accelerate wear on consumables like brakes, suspension components, and drivetrain elements. The absence of extreme mileage spikes suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to particularly harsh conditions, but the suspension and braking advisories from previous tests highlight that regular, high-mileage wear is a factor to consider. The underseal coverage and underbody rust advisories also point to potential long-term exposure to moisture and road salt, which can exacerbate structural and component corrosion over time. As a prospective buyer, this Polo warrants a thorough mechanical inspection to confirm the advisories recorded in the MOT history and to address any underlying issues before purchase. Begin with a visual and functional assessment of the suspension system: check for persistent oil leaks from the front shock absorbers, which were flagged as seriously defective in 2022-07-26, and listen for unusual clunking or bouncing when driving over bumps, as this may indicate further wear in the suspension arm bushes or misaligned components. Inspect the front brakes for uneven wear patterns, binding calipers, or corrosion on the discs and linings, as the binding and worn discs from 2022-10-24 could lead to reduced braking efficiency if not addressed. Test the parking brake for firm engagement and smooth operation, as the 2022-07-26 failure suggests potential issues with the mechanical linkage or hydraulic system. Additionally, verify the condition of the underbody and structural integrity, particularly around the suspension mounts and exhaust system, where rust and corrosion have been noted. Pay attention to the oil leak advisory, which may indicate a failing oil seal or valve cover gasket; a visual check under the bonnet and a test for oil contamination in the drive train area is essential. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, consider a comprehensive fluid check, including the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, as these fluids can degrade over time even with regular servicing. Test drive the vehicle to listen for any unusual noises from the drivetrain, exhaust, or electrical systems, and monitor for performance issues such as reduced acceleration or rough riding, which could signal deeper mechanical problems. Finally, ensure the service history is complete, particularly for the suspension and braking components, and confirm that all previous advisories have been addressed with professional repairs. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, check the 12V battery for capacity and corrosion, as prolonged inactivity can lead to battery failure or parasitic drain issues.