2012 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · AG62 HDK

The 2012 Volkswagen Passat presents a mixed mechanical picture following its most recent MOT activity in September 2025. The vehicle passed its test on 3 September 2025 at 119,205 miles, but only after a failure the previous day at the same recorded mileage. This pattern suggests the previous owner addressed immediate fail items yet left several underlying advisories unresolved. The maintenance trend is neither clearly improving nor worsening. Instead, it points to reactive repairs rather than proactive upkeep. The mileage accumulation of roughly 8,515 miles per year over fourteen years is entirely typical for a vehicle of this age and type. The record shows a steady climb from 109,541 miles in August 2023 to 114,899 miles in August 2024, then to 119,205 miles by September 2025. There are no suspicious gaps or sudden jumps in the odometer readings, indicating consistent use without long periods of dormancy or clocking concerns. The September 2025 failure revealed several issues that demand closer inspection. The nearside front outer constant velocity boot was severely deteriorated, meaning the joint has been exposed to dirt and moisture for some time. A replacement CV joint or at minimum a new boot and repack is overdue. The nearside rear service brake was flagged as binding on both the failed and passed tests, which suggests a sticking caliper or seized guide pins that were not properly rectified. The exhaust silencer was noted as slightly loose with a broken centre sleeve, a condition that can worsen under vibration. A prospective buyer should have the rear brakes stripped and lubricated, the CV joint assessed for play, and the exhaust system checked for corrosion at the mounting points. Beyond the flagged items, the 2024 failure raised concerns about anti-roll bar linkage ball joints and dust covers on both sides of the front and rear suspension. Although the vehicle passed in 2025, no specific retest entries confirm these were replaced. Worn anti-roll bar links and degraded dust covers accelerate bush wear and compromise handling stability, particularly over uneven surfaces. The recurring tyre wear advisories across multiple tests, including uneven wear and structural damage, hint at possible suspension geometry issues or simple neglect of regular tyre rotations. A thorough inspection of all suspension bushes, ball joints, and tracking alignment is advisable before purchase.