VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT2009 · 2.0L DIESEL

The vehicle remains roadworthy, though the maintenance record shows a developing trend in suspension-related wear. The most recent test in September 2025 at 97,134 miles identified worn bushes on both the nearside and offside rear suspension arm pins. This represents a progression from the 2021 test at 84,180 miles, where the front arm bushes showed similar initial wear. While the vehicle continues to pass, the recurring nature of these advisories indicates that rubber components are reaching the end of life. At seventeen years old, the recorded mileage of 97,134 miles is notably low, averaging approximately 5,700 miles per year. The usage pattern appears consistent in recent years, with only 4,731 miles covered between September 2024 and September 2025. This low-frequency use often explains the degradation of rubber components like suspension bushes which perish due to age rather than mileage. The lack of defects in the 2022 and 2023 tests suggests periods where the vehicle was not subjected to significant high-stress road conditions. A buyer should prioritise a physical inspection of the entire suspension geometry to assess the extent of play in the rear arm bushes. Since the front bushes were flagged four years ago and the rear are now failing, both axles likely require replacement to prevent uneven tyre wear. The 2021 advisory regarding thin rear brake pads necessitates a check of the current thickness and rotor condition to ensure maintenance was performed since then. Given the age of the Passat, a thorough check for structural corrosion on the sills and subframes is essential, as low-mileage vehicles can still suffer from surface rust if stationary for long periods.