2012 Volkswagen Passat 1.6L Diesel · CV12 OUD

A recurring theme in the MOT record is progressive wear on the front lower suspension arm bushings and tyres that have repeatedly been flagged as close to the legal tread limit, yet the car has avoided any further failures since the 2018 brake‑efficiency and plate‑missing defects, with the latest 2023 test passing without defects. This pattern suggests that while the vehicle has remained roadworthy enough to clear MOT, the suspension and tyre wear have been a persistent concern that has not yet escalated to outright failure. At 181,856 mi over roughly fourteen years the average annual mileage is about 13,000 mi, which is above the typical UK average for a car of this age. The mileage progression shows regular testing intervals with no long gaps, indicating the odometer readings are likely reliable. Such a high cumulative distance accelerates the natural degradation of wear items – suspension bushings, tyre tread, brake pads and discs – and implies that many of the vehicle’s consumables may be approaching the end of their service life. When inspecting the car, pay particular attention to the front suspension. Listen for clunking or knocking over bumps and feel for any looseness or wandering in the steering, which would indicate the worn lower arm bushings have begun to move beyond acceptable limits. Examine all four tyres for tread depth well below the 3 mm advisory threshold, side‑wall damage, or uneven wear that could point to misaligned suspension components. During a test drive, apply the brakes firmly; the pedal should feel solid with no sponginess, and there should be no judder or pulling to one side, confirming that the brake system, which once failed the efficiency test, is now performing within specifications. Finally, verify that the front registration plate is correctly fitted and secure, as the missing‑plate failure was rectified after 2018. The small chip noted on the off‑side front windscreen does not affect structural integrity but should be inspected for any propagation. Although no structural or emission defects have been recorded, a thorough pre‑purchase examination of the suspension bushings, brake components and tyre condition is essential to ensure the vehicle remains safe and to budget for the likely replacement of these wear items in the near term.