2018 Volkswagen Polo 1.0L Petrol · WN18 MVT

The most recent MOT, carried out on 26 March 2026, resulted in a pass but highlighted several advisories – notably under‑inflated spare tyre, front and rear tyres on the nearside and off‑side approaching the legal tread limit, and a repeat of tyre‑wear warnings from previous years. Earlier MOTs show a consistent pattern of passing results with only minor advisory items such as thin front brake pads in 2023 and a deteriorated ball‑joint dust cover the same year. Overall the maintenance trend can be described as stable in terms of structural and safety items, but the recurring tyre‑wear advisories indicate a need for attention to the tyre set and related suspension components. With 55,792 mi recorded on a 2018 Polo, the vehicle averages just under 7,000 mi per annum, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope. There are no pronounced mileage spikes or long periods of inactivity evident from the MOT record, suggesting the car has been driven regularly rather than stored for extended stretches. This moderate annual mileage means wear on consumables such as brakes, tyres and suspension bushings should be proportionate to age rather than excessive mileage, but the tyre‑wear advisories imply that the current set may be nearing the end of its service life. A prospective buyer should give the tyre condition the highest priority. Verify the tread depth on all four fitted tyres and the spare, looking for a minimum of 1.6 mm across the tread and checking for sidewall cracking, bulges or uneven wear that could point to mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushes. During a test drive, listen for any clunk or thump when turning the steering wheel or going over bumps, which would corroborate the earlier dust‑cover issue on the nearside front track‑rod end; a loose or worn ball‑joint can manifest as steering wander or a knocking sensation. Inspect the front brake pads for remaining thickness – if the advisory about thin pads from 2023 has not been addressed, the pads may be close to the minimum allowance and the discs could be showing early scoring, leading to brake shudder under hard braking. Given the vehicle’s eight‑year age, also examine time‑related items irrespective of mileage. Check the 12 V battery for corrosion on terminals and test its cranking voltage; a battery older than five years often requires replacement. Inspect the under‑carriage for rust, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, as prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion. Verify that engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals – fluid can degrade with age even if the car is not driven heavily. Finally, ensure the service book is up‑to‑date with documented oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service (if applicable), and that any outstanding recall work has been completed. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the Polo’s roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance costs.