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 17 MOT tests on record, passing 12 and failing 5 (71% pass rate). It has 197,603 miles on the clock, averaging 11,348 miles per year, above 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 SM54 YXE
Data from DVSA. Last updated August 2026. Check gov.uk for the latest.
MOT failures recorded
Average miles/year
Gap in MOT history
Mileage Analysis
Above average| Latest reading | 197,603 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 47 |
| Average per year | 11,348 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check SM54 YXE
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- Service interval analysis
- Warranty work logged
Full MOT Test History 17 tests on record
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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 | SM54 YXE |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Colour | Blue |
| Fuel type | Diesel |
| Engine | 1422cc |
| Year | 2004 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | SM — Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Age identifier | 54 — September 2004 to February 2005 |
More SM54 Y plates
Browse all SM54 Y registrations from Edinburgh.
About SM54 YXE
What car is SM54 YXE?
SM54 YXE is an blue Volkswagen Polo, diesel (1422cc). First registered in Edinburgh in 2004.
What is the mileage of SM54 YXE?
The last recorded mileage for SM54 YXE was 197,603 miles, recorded on 21 Dec 2019 during its most recent MOT test.
Has SM54 YXE passed its MOT?
SM54 YXE has had 17 MOT tests with a 71% pass rate (12 passes, 5 failures). It last passed on 21 Dec 2019.
Is SM54 YXE ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, SM54 YXE 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 SM54 YXE?
SM54 YXE is approximately 22 years old. Age identifier 54 means registered between 1 September 2004 and 28 February 2005.