2016 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · AF16 JZM

Front suspension wear dominates the MOT record, with both nearside and off‑side lower arm bushes recorded as excessively worn in the November 2025 failure and then cleared on the subsequent pass a few days later. Earlier advisories also noted slight play in the off‑side front lower arm ball joint and a fluctuating nearside front service brake, while rear shock absorbers have repeatedly shown light oil misting. The pattern points to a history of front suspension component degradation that required corrective work before the latest test, whereas the remainder of the record remains free of outright failures. At roughly 157,600 miles over ten years, the car averages about 15,800 miles per annum – a mileage level that exceeds typical UK usage for a vehicle of this age. Such cumulative distance accelerates wear on suspension bushings, shock absorbers, brake linings and tyre carcasses, which is reflected in the recurring advisories. The MOT chronology shows regular annual testing with no prolonged gaps, indicating the vehicle has been kept on the road consistently rather than stored for extended periods, further confirming that the wear observed is a function of mileage rather than inactivity. When inspecting the car, concentrate on the front suspension assembly: check for any looseness or clunking when the steering wheel is turned at low speed and when driving over potholes, and verify that the lower arm bushes and ball joints feel solid with no excessive play. Examine the rear shock absorbers for any oil seepage around the damper bodies and feel for a soft, spongy response under braking or when compressing the rear suspension. The tyres should be inspected closely for the cracking noted on both rear sides, and any signs of perishing tread or sidewall damage should be considered a replacement trigger. Brake performance warrants particular attention. The earlier advisory about fluctuating nearside front service brake suggests possible caliper or hydraulic inconsistency; a test‑drive should reveal any pedal pulsation, pull to one side, or uneven braking effort. Although the brake pads were flagged as thin in 2023, they have not been recorded as failed, so verify pad thickness visually and listen for squeal or grinding under moderate braking. Finally, confirm that any repairs undertaken after the 2025 suspension failure are documented and that the replaced components are of appropriate specification before committing to purchase.