2005 Volkswagen Polo 1.4L Diesel · WJ05 AFU

The most recent MOT entry is a pass dated 2022‑05‑18 at 207 875 miles, recorded with a rear exhaust poorly mounted advisory. A failed test on the same day at 207 832 miles shows that some defects were still present when the pass was issued. The pattern from 2017 onward indicates a clear improvement: after a series of failures involving brakes, suspension and lighting, the 2021 test returned a clean pass and the 2022 test only carries a minor advisory. Overall the vehicle’s roadworthiness is stable but not fully resolved, with lingering wear items that prevent a clean, defect‑free status. Mileage accumulation has been steady at roughly 9 900 miles per year, matching the typical usage for a 21‑year‑old vehicle. The recorded figures rise from 111 474 miles in 2014 to 207 875 miles in 2022, with only a modest dip in the 2018 increase. The gap between the latest MOT (May 2022) and the current date (August 2026) exceeds four years, meaning the car has been without a valid MOT for a substantial period, which is a legal and practical concern for any prospective buyer. A buyer should inspect the front brake discs for pitting or scoring, the suspension arm bushes for excessive movement, and the rear exhaust mounting for secure attachment and corrosion. The CV joint boots on both front sides show repeated deterioration; they must be examined for tears that could allow dirt ingress. The rear brake binding observed in 2018 and the rear exhaust box corrosion noted in multiple tests also merit close visual and operational checks. Tyre tread depth should be verified given several advisories on front and rear tyres worn close to the legal limit. In summary the vehicle’s mechanical condition is largely consistent with its age, but the identified wear on brakes, suspension, exhaust and drivetrain components requires targeted inspection and likely remedial work before the car can be safely returned to the road.