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 23 MOT tests on record, passing 14 and failing 9 (61% pass rate). It has 103,908 miles on the clock, averaging 4,813 miles per year, well 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 SM04 VCW
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
Low mileage| Latest reading | 103,908 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Average per year | 4,813 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check SM04 VCW
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- Warranty work logged
Full MOT Test History 23 tests on record
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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 | SM04 VCW |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Colour | Black |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1422cc |
| Year | 2004 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | SM — Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Age identifier | 04 — March 2004 to August 2004 |
More SM04 V plates
Browse all SM04 V registrations from Edinburgh.
About SM04 VCW
What car is SM04 VCW?
SM04 VCW is an black Volkswagen Polo, diesel (1422cc). First registered in Edinburgh in 2004.
What is the mileage of SM04 VCW?
The last recorded mileage for SM04 VCW was 103,908 miles, recorded on 22 Oct 2021 during its most recent MOT test.
Has SM04 VCW passed its MOT?
SM04 VCW has had 23 MOT tests with a 61% pass rate (14 passes, 9 failures). It last passed on 22 Oct 2021.
Is SM04 VCW ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, SM04 VCW 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 SM04 VCW?
SM04 VCW is approximately 22 years old. Age identifier 04 means registered between 1 March 2004 and 31 August 2004.