1988 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT1.8L Petrol

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 16 July 2026 at 95,322 miles, the only recorded defect being slight play in both rear wheel bearings. Earlier tests showed a broader range of advisories, but the last three years have been free of new failures, indicating a stable maintenance trend with the bearing play persisting but not worsening. At 95,322 miles the car averages roughly 2,500 miles per year, a mileage level unusually low for a 1988 model. Between 2014 and 2026 the odometer rose by just over 10,000 miles, equating to an average annual increase of 800‑900 miles, which suggests gentle, consistent use rather than periods of heavy mileage or long storage gaps. A prospective buyer should feel the rear wheel bearings for any looseness and listen for rumble at speed, as the slight play noted in 2026 has been a recurring issue since 2018. The front outer CV joint boots were flagged as severely deteriorated in 2020 (nearside) and 2021 (offside); visual inspection of the boots and surrounding oil seals is advisable. The off‑side rear seat‑belt anchorage corrosion recorded in 2017 and 2018 warrants a close look at the wheel‑arch and sill for any progressing rust. Exhaust system leaks noted in 2015, 2017 and 2018 should be checked for cracks or loose baffles, and the rear suspension bump‑stop brackets, marked as broken or unserviceable in 2015, merit verification that they have been replaced or are still functional. Finally, tyre tread, especially inner‑edge wear, should be examined to confirm the current condition matches the clean record of the last three tests.