2002 Volkswagen Polo 1.4L Diesel · VX52 CKO

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a pattern of reactive rather than proactive care. While the most recent test in November 2025 at 159,349 miles passed, it carried advisories for three tyres worn to the legal limit and a persistent oil leak. This follows a period of significant mechanical neglect, particularly evidenced by the failure in October 2023 where multiple safety-critical faults including a damaged brake hose, heavily worn brake discs, and a failing parking brake mechanism were identified. At 159,349 miles, the car has averaged approximately 6,640 miles per year, which is consistent with a 24-year-old vehicle. The data shows steady usage, with roughly 9,000 miles covered between the October 2024 and November 2025 tests. However, the mileage does not mask the evident degradation of rubber components and artwork. The frequent appearance of deteriorated CV boots and anti-roll bar linkages suggests that the vehicle is suffering from age-related wear despite the moderate distance driven. A prospective buyer must focus inspection on the suspension and braking systems, which have shown recurring issues. The history flags damaged track rod end dust covers and deteriorated anti-roll bar bushings, indicating the front end geometry requires close monitoring. The persistent oil leak, noted since at least September 2022, requires a physical inspection to determine if it is a simple seal failure or a more significant way issue. Furthermore, the repeated failures for tyres worn on the edges across multiple years suggest an alignment problem that has not been properly rectified, causing premature tyre wear.