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 2018 Volkswagen Polo Petrol 999cc has had 9 MOT tests on record, passing 6 and failing 3 (67% pass rate). It has 87,290 miles on the clock, averaging 10,486 miles per year, above the UK average of 7,400. The 1.0 TSI engine is known for 1. carbon buildup on intake valves and 2. turbocharger actuator/wastegate linkage failure. Common Volkswagen Polo issues include infotainment system glitches and component affected.
MOT & Mileage History for SM61 EMS
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
Above average| Latest reading | 87,290 miles |
| Reading date | |
| Miles last year | 1,275 |
| Average per year | 10,486 |
| Mileage consistency | Variable |
Check SM61 EMS
- Write-off & insurance claims Experian
- Outstanding finance check Experian
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- Plate & colour change history
- Franchised dealer records
- Independent garage visits
- Service interval analysis
- Warranty work logged
Full MOT Test History 9 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 (2017–2024), based on owner reports and workshop data across the UK.
Infotainment System Glitches
Component affected
What goes wrong
Symptoms
1. Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves
Direct-injection petrol engines like the CHZB lack fuel spray across the intake valves during the induction stroke. Without this natural cleaning action, carbon deposits accumulate on the valve stems and seats, restricting airflow.[2]
2. Turbocharger Actuator/Wastegate Linkage Failure
The actuator linkage connecting the wastegate solenoid to the wastegate valve becomes faulty or loose, causing loss of boost control. Many repair shops misdiagnose this as full turbocharger failure and recommend a costly replacement (€1,000+) when only the actuator arm needs repair (€150).[3]
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 | SM61 EMS |
| Make | Volkswagen |
| Model | Polo |
| Colour | Blue |
| Fuel type | Petrol |
| Engine | 999cc |
| Year | 2018 |
| First registered | |
| Area code | SM — Edinburgh, Scotland |
| Age identifier | 61 — September 2011 to February 2012 |
More SM61 E plates
Browse all SM61 E registrations from Edinburgh.
About SM61 EMS
What car is SM61 EMS?
SM61 EMS is an blue Volkswagen Polo, petrol (999cc). First registered in Edinburgh in 2018.
What is the mileage of SM61 EMS?
The last recorded mileage for SM61 EMS was 87,290 miles, recorded on 29 Jun 2026 during its most recent MOT test.
Has SM61 EMS passed its MOT?
SM61 EMS has had 9 MOT tests with a 67% pass rate (6 passes, 3 failures). It last passed on 29 Jun 2026.
Is SM61 EMS ULEZ compliant?
Based on its fuel type and registration year, SM61 EMS is likely ULEZ compliant. Petrol post-2005 (Euro 4). This is an estimate based on typical emission standards — confirm with TfL's ULEZ checker for a definitive answer.
How old is SM61 EMS?
SM61 EMS is approximately 8 years old. Age identifier 61 means registered between 1 September 2011 and 28 February 2012.