2004 Volkswagen Passat 1.9L Diesel · CV04 XOY

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend indicates a reactive approach to repairs rather than proactive prevention. The most recent test in October 2025 at 240,298 miles shows the car passed after a failure just eight days prior, which was caused by a split nearside front drive shaft CV boot and persistent issues with fluctuating rear service brakes. While the vehicle remains legal, the recurring nature of these faults suggests that the owner only addresses mechanical defects when they threaten an MOT pass result. At 22 years old, the recorded mileage of 240,298 miles represents an average of approximately 11,000 miles per year, which aligns with typical UK usage patterns for this age. The data shows consistent use between test intervals, with 12,081 miles covered between October 2024 and October 2025, and another 10,691 miles in the year preceding that. This steady accumulation of mileage places significant cumulative stress on the drivetrain and suspension components, which is consistent with the wear and tear noted in the historical record. A buyer must inspect the front suspension geometry closely, as the 2023 test flagged worn upper arm bushes on both sides. The history of split CV shaft boots in both 2024 and 2025 indicates that the rubber components are failing due to age and mileage, which can lead to premature drive joint failure if not monitored. Furthermore, the fluctuating rear brakes noted in the 2025 test suggest warped rotor discs or sticking calipers that require a physical inspection. Given the previous mention of exhaust system corrosion in 2023, a thorough check of the underside and mounting points is essential to ensure structural integrity has not progressed beyond surface-level rust.