2014 Volkswagen Polo 1.4L Diesel · VE64 VLM

The vehicle's recent MOT history indicates a worsening maintenance trend characterized by recurring component failures and neglected consumables. While the May 2026 test resulted in a pass, the vehicle failed earlier that same day due to a defective offside headlamp, an oil leak, worn front tyres, and exhaust corrosion. The presence of an oil leak, alongside persistent issues with shock absorbers and tyres, suggests that while the car remains legal, the standard of preventative maintenance has declined in recent years. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a 12-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 8,180 miles per year. The record shows steady usage, moving from 52,213 miles in February 2021 to 98,154 miles by May 2026. There are no significant periods of dormancy indicated by the data, and the mileage progression appears predictable for a typical commuter vehicle. A prospective buyer should focus heavily on the suspension and braking systems during a physical inspection. The record shows a long-standing pattern of nearside front shock absorbers misting oil, dating back to 2019, which escalated to a serious fluid leak and failure in April 2022. Recurring issues with binding brakes and pitted front discs also suggest that the braking components may require immediate attention or replacement. Further scrutiny of the underside is necessary to assess the extent of corrosion. The tester flagged a swollen and corroded front-to-rear brake pipe in April 2024 and noted a corroded rear exhaust casing in May 2026. Given the history of exhaust clamp corrosion and the current oil leak, a thorough check of the structural integrity and the sealing of the engine components is essential to avoid unexpected repair costs.