2015 Volkswagen Polo 1.2L Petrol · WD64 BVM

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 21 October 2025. The overall maintenance trend appears stable, although the history indicates a pattern of failures immediately preceding the passes, which suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to maintenance. Specifically, the most recent failure regarding carbon monoxide emissions indicates a fault in the combustion or exhaust system that has since been rectified, while previous failures for brake discs and wiper blades are typical wear-and-tear items for a vehicle of this vintage. With a recorded mileage of 52,602 miles over approximately eleven years, this Polo has been used significantly less than the UK average, averaging fewer than 5,000 miles per year. While low mileage generally implies less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it introduces specific risks associated with vehicle standing. Low-usage vehicles are more prone to the degradation of rubber components, fluid contamination due to moisture buildup, and the potential for brake components to seize or bind due to inactivity. During a physical inspection, particular attention should be paid to the tyres. The 2022 records highlighted perishing and cracking across all four tyres, a common symptom of age-related degradation rather than tread wear. Even if the tread depth is legal, inspect the sidewalls for fine cracks or hardening. Additionally, the 2024 advisory regarding oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber should be investigated; look for active leaks or a soft, bouncy ride during the test drive, as this indicates the damper is failing and may require replacement to maintain chassis stability. Given the low annual mileage and the previous failure for carbon monoxide emissions, verify the service history to ensure oil and filters have been changed based on time intervals rather than just mileage. On the test drive, listen for any brake shudder or unevenness that could suggest warped discs or binding calipers, and ensure the engine idles smoothly without hunting. Finally, check the health of the 12V battery and inspect the brake fluid for discoloration, as these components degrade over time regardless of how few miles the vehicle has covered.