2005 Volkswagen Sharan 1.9L Diesel · PO55 XUA

The May 2024 test at 151,008 miles returned a pass but recorded four minor defects and an advisory. Both front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust covers were severely deteriorated, the nearside front constant velocity boot remained severely deteriorated, and the offside front side repeater lens was defective. The tester also noted poor condition of the nearside front headlight aim. This follows a June 2023 initial failure on major seat belt anchorage corrosion affecting both front prescribed areas, a defect that indicates significant structural degradation. Although the retest passed the next day, the persistent CV boot fault and the emergence of fresh suspension linkage deterioration suggest a worsening trend rather than a stable maintenance pattern. The Sharan has covered 151,008 miles over 21 years, averaging roughly 7,200 miles annually, which is typical for this class. The history shows only four test entries since December 2021, leaving a 17-month gap before the 2023 pair. No mileage figures accompany the earlier tests, so rapid accumulation cannot be confirmed or ruled out. The recorded interval is consistent with regular annual testing, though the absence of intermediate data limits a detailed wear-rate assessment. A buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front seat belt anchorage zones for ongoing corrosion, as the 2023 major failure points to structural weakness that a simple repair may not fully resolve. The rear brake discs were recorded as worn, pitted and scored on both sides in 2023 and were not mentioned in 2024, so their current thickness and surface condition need verification. Both front constant velocity boots, particularly the nearside unit flagged repeatedly since 2023, require replacement to prevent joint contamination. The rear anti-roll bar corrosion noted in 2021 and the new front anti-roll bar linkage dust cover deterioration in 2024 indicate widespread suspension corrosion. Tyre sidewalls should be checked for the cracking noted on the offside front in 2023, and the headlight aim must be corrected to meet legal requirements.