2021 Volkswagen Passat 1.4L Hybrid electric (clean) · ET21 AGU

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat’s latest DVSA MOT test on 2025-07-24 resulted in a passing outcome, though it included two critical advisories regarding the nearside and offside front tyres, each showing wear approaching the legal limit and characterised by edge wear. This follows a previous MOT failure in 2024-07-16 where the offside rear tyre exhibited exposed ply or cords, a severe condition that would have rendered the vehicle unroadworthy under UK law. The intervening MOT in 2024-07-18 was clean, suggesting a brief period of stability in maintenance, but the overall trend remains concerning. The presence of recurring tyre-related advisories indicates either suboptimal driving practices—such as aggressive cornering, underinflation, or excessive load distribution—which accelerate tyre wear, or potential alignment or suspension issues contributing to uneven contact patches. The vehicle’s maintenance history thus reflects a pattern of wear-related concerns that demand immediate attention to prevent further degradation of tyre integrity and potential safety risks. The recorded mileage of 59,760 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 11,952 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the mileage data alone do not account for periods of prolonged standing, which can accelerate wear on components like brakes, suspension, and fluids due to standing corrosion, caliper binding, or fluid degradation over time. The absence of high-mileage anomalies suggests either a moderate driving regimen or intermittent use, but the tyre wear advisories suggest that the vehicle may have been subjected to conditions that exacerbated wear beyond typical mileage expectations. For instance, prolonged idling or frequent short trips without proper heating can lead to condensation and corrosion in brake systems, while uneven tyre wear might indicate misalignment or suspension component failure, both of which warrant thorough inspection. Given the tyre-related advisories and the previous MOT failure, the prospective buyer must prioritise a comprehensive inspection of the tyres, suspension, and braking system. The exposed ply or cords on the offside rear tyre from the 2024-07-16 failure indicate that the tyre is no longer safe for use and should be replaced immediately, as further driving could lead to sudden failure and loss of control. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal response, which may signal caliper binding or warped discs, and check for clunking noises from the suspension, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or coil spring failure. Additionally, inspect the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition for cracks or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity, especially if the vehicle has been stored in harsh conditions. The front tyre wear advisories should prompt a check of wheel alignment and suspension geometry to determine if the wear is due to improper camber or toe settings. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should also address the broader maintenance implications of the vehicle’s usage profile. Given the age and mileage, the 12-volt battery should be tested for capacity and corrosion, as standing vehicles can suffer from sulphation or terminal corrosion, particularly if the engine has been off for extended periods. Fluid levels—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—should be checked for degradation, as fluids can break down over time, even with moderate mileage. The service history should be verified for mandatory time-based servicing, such as brake fluid flushes, which are critical for safety and should not be delayed. Finally, the vehicle’s structural integrity should be assessed for signs of rust, especially in areas prone to moisture exposure, such as wheel arches, undercarriage, and door sills, as corrosion can compromise the vehicle’s overall roadworthiness and resale value. If the buyer is satisfied with the findings and proceeds with purchase, they should budget for the immediate replacement of the rear tyre and consider scheduling a professional inspection to address any underlying suspension or alignment issues contributing to the tyre wear.