Vehicle summary
ULEZ status is estimated based on fuel type and registration year. It may not reflect the actual emission standard of this vehicle. Check with TfL for a definitive answer.
At a glance
This 2004 Volkswagen Polo Diesel 1422cc has had 26 MOT tests on record, passing 13 and failing 13 (50% pass rate). It has 118,304 miles on the clock, averaging 6,163 miles per year, below the UK average of 7,400. The 1.4 TDI engine is known for 1. oil pump chain & balance shaft chain wear / failure and 2. injector unit (pd pump–dooer) wear & electrical failure. Common Volkswagen Polo issues include engine-specific faults and brake pad and disc wear:.
MOT & Mileage History for PF53 PHY
Data from DVSA. Last updated August 2026. Check gov.uk for the latest.
MOT failures recorded
Average miles/year
Gaps in MOT history
Mileage Analysis
Below average| Latest reading | 118,304 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Average per year | 6,163 |
| Mileage consistency | Consistent |
Check PF53 PHY
- Write-off & insurance claims Experian
- Outstanding finance check Experian
- Stolen vehicle check Experian
- Ownership changes Experian
- Mileage discrepancy alerts
- Plate & colour change history
- Franchised dealer records
- Independent garage visits
- Service interval analysis
- Warranty work logged
Full MOT Test History 26 tests on record
Similar cars to consider
Buyers comparing the Volkswagen Polo often also look at these models. Check their MOT history and reliability before deciding:
Reported issues for this Volkswagen Polo
These are the most commonly reported problems on Volkswagen Polo models (2002–2009), based on owner reports and workshop data across the UK.
Engine-specific faults
Brake pad and disc wear:
Tyre wear and replacement:
Spark plug replacement:
1. Oil Pump Chain & Balance Shaft Chain Wear / Failure
The chain driving the oil pump and balance shaft (where fitted) is undersized for the loads imposed by the three-cylinder engine's unbalanced firing impulses. Early models are particularly vulnerable; chain tensioner wear allows excessive slack, leading to chain stretch, skip, or catastrophic failure[1].
2. Injector Unit (PD Pump–Dooer) Wear & Electrical Failure
Worn plunger seals allow diesel and engine oil to mix; electrical spools fail (sticking or electrical contact wear). These are high-wear components under the extreme pressures of the PD system[1].
Common faults, what to check, and what to pay
Explore more about the Volkswagen Polo
Thinking about buying this car? These resources will help you make an informed decision.
Vehicle Details
| Registration | PF53 PHY |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Colour | Red |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1422cc |
| Year | 2004 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | PF — Preston, Preston |
| Age identifier | 53 — September 2003 to February 2004 |
More PF53 P plates
Browse all PF53 P registrations from Preston.
About PF53 PHY
What car is PF53 PHY?
PF53 PHY is a red Volkswagen Polo, diesel (1422cc). First registered in Preston in 2004.
What is the mileage of PF53 PHY?
The last recorded mileage for PF53 PHY was 118,304 miles, recorded on 17 Oct 2022 during its most recent MOT test.
Has PF53 PHY passed its MOT?
PF53 PHY has had 26 MOT tests with a 50% pass rate (13 passes, 13 failures). It last passed on 17 Oct 2022.
Is PF53 PHY ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, PF53 PHY is likely not ULEZ compliant. As a diesel vehicle registered in 2004, it typically does not meet the Euro 6 emission standard required. This is an estimate — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker.
How old is PF53 PHY?
PF53 PHY is approximately 22 years old. Age identifier 53 means registered between 1 September 2003 and 28 February 2004.