2011 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · VU61 SWW
2011 Volkswagen Polo (1.2L, petrol). First registered 12 Sept 2011. Recorded mileage 71,121 miles. MOT expired on 07 Oct 2026. Taxed until 01 Mar 2027.
- Make & Model
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO
- Year / Origin
- 2011 · Worcester
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 07 Oct 2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Mar 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 71,121 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- ULEZ Compliant (Euro 4+)
- Fuel & Engine
- Petrol · 1.2L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
AI-generated interpretation of this vehicle’s MOT record — not an official statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
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.
VU61 SWW Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 04/10/2025
- 71,121 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 1 historical MOT failure
- 1 defect noted at the latest MOT
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
VU61 SWW 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 (VU61 SWW) between July 2022 and October 2025.
The record contains 4 passes and 1 failure.
The most recent test on 04 October 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 1 failure that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Exhaust & Emissions (1 issue), Brakes (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 1 advisory notice is 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: “Exhaust Lambda reading after 2nd fast idle outside specified limits (8.2.1.2 (c))”.
VU61 SWW Mileage History
- 13/07/202266,649 mi
- 07/07/202367,775 mi+1,126 mi
- 07/07/202367,782 mi+7 mi
- 09/10/202469,022 mi+1,240 mi
- 04/10/202571,121 mi+2,099 mi
Average of roughly 1,386 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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MOT Roadworthiness: Average
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
A recommended purchase for those seeking
Focus on the service history to ensure the 1.2L petrol engine has had regular oil changes to support long-term health. Check for evidence of the 2023 emissions repair to confirm whether a sensor or catalyst was replaced to rectify the lambda reading failure.
Negotiate based on the need for a brake fluid top-up or full flush, as indicated by the advisory from the October 2025 MOT. Ensure all documentation for previous repairs is available to verify the vehicle's maintenance trail.
The 1198cc petrol engine is designed for urban efficiency, typically placing the vehicle in a lower insurance group and providing competitive fuel economy. Annual road tax for a 2011 petrol Polo is generally modest, though buyers should verify the specific CO2 band for registration VU61SWW.
Maintenance costs are typically standard for a small hatchback, though older vehicles may require more frequent attention to wear-and-tear items. Total annual costs including fuel, tax, and insurance are estimated to be moderate.
Pay close attention to the braking system, specifically the fluid levels and potential leaks, given the advisory from October 2025. Inspect the tyres and ball joints thoroughly, as these are highlighted as top failure reasons for this model in aggregate data.
Verify that the engine management light is fully operational and not illuminated, as 'engine mil inoperative' is a common failure point for the Polo. A visual inspection of the exhaust system is also advised following the 2023 lambda reading failure.
This silver 2011 Volkswagen Polo has recorded 71,121 miles, which is below the model average for its age. The MOT history shows a consistent pass rate, with a single failure in July 2023 regarding exhaust lambda readings that was resolved on the same day. The most recent test in October 2025 noted a brake hydraulic reservoir close to the minimum mark.
The Polo has a respectable aggregate MOT pass rate of 77.3%, though it frequently sees failures related to tyres and suspension components.
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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