2015 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · AF65 EWV

The most recent MOT test passed in December 2023, but the vehicle's history indicates a recent period of declining maintenance standards. The 2023 failure was significant, encompassing a dangerous tyre tread depth deficiency and a major defect regarding a leaking nearside rear shock absorber. While the vehicle showed a clean record in 2022, the subsequent issues suggest that maintenance has become reactive rather than preventative. The trend indicates that while the vehicle is currently roadworthy, there has been a recent lapse in the oversight of essential consumables and suspension components. With 87,612 miles recorded over eleven years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 7,965 miles per year. This is a typical usage profile for a private vehicle and suggests it has not been subjected to the heavy mechanical strain of high-mileage commercial use. However, this relatively low annual mileage means that components may be more prone to age-related degradation, such as the perishing of rubber bushes or the seizing of brake calipers, rather than wear from high mileage. The mileage is consistent with the vehicle's age, but the recent MOT failures suggest that the low usage has not prevented the degradation of key mechanical parts. During a test drive, particular attention must be paid to the suspension and tyre integrity. The major defect regarding the nearside rear shock absorber requires a visual inspection for oil leakage around the strut and a physical check for any knocking or excessive bouncing over bumps. Furthermore, the 2023 failure involving tyre tread depth and uneven wear on the offside front tyre suggests that the vehicle's wheel alignment may be out of specification. Inspect all tyres for consistent wear across the tread surface and check for any signs of camber wear, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged control arms. The advisory from the 2023 smoke test regarding a lack of acceleration should be closely monitored. If the vehicle is a diesel, this could be an early indicator of carbon accumulation within the diesel particulate filter or an issue with the EGR valve; listen for sluggishness or observe for any visible exhaust smoke under heavy acceleration. Additionally, given the 2019 advisories for pitted rear brake discs and thin pads, you should check for any brake shudder or pulsation through the pedal, which would indicate warped or unevenly worn discs. Ensure that the service history provides evidence that the shock absorbers and tyres identified in the 2023 failure have been professionally replaced.