2009 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · DF59 WBX

The vehicle's maintenance trend shows signs of worsening mechanical neglect despite a passing result in the most recent test. The May 2023 MOT at 206,155 miles indicates that while the car passed, several issues from a failure just five days prior remained unresolved. Specifically, the tester flagged worn suspension arm pins or bushes on both the nearside and offside rear, alongside an offside rear tyre worn to the legal limit. The previous failure on 2023-05-05 at 206,153 miles was significant, involving serious fluid leaks from three shock absorbers, a corroded nearside rear coil spring, and an inoperative engine malfunction indicator light. The recorded mileage of 206,155 miles for a 2009 model represents high usage, averaging approximately 12,000 miles per year. The data shows a jump of 12,612 miles between the February 2022 test and the May 2023 test. This consistent mileage accumulation suggests regular long-distance use, which places sustained stress on the suspension and drivetrain components. The lack of recent MOT data since May 2023 means the vehicle's current roadworthiness is unverified and the mechanical condition may have deteriorated further given the high annual mileage. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the entire suspension system. The MOT history shows a recurring pattern of worn suspension arm bushes and leaking shock absorbers dating back to February 2022. The presence of a corroded coil spring in May 2023 suggests that structural component fatigue is a known issue. You should check for any further signs of corrosion on the springs and check the integrity of all dampers. The engine management system requires immediate attention. The May 2023 failure noted an inoperative or malfunctioning engine MIL, which is a serious fault that can mask significant engine issues. Beyond the suspension, inspect the tyre condition and alignment, as the records show a tendency for tyres to wear unevenly on the edges. Given the high mileage and the history of shock absorber leaks, a professional inspection of the dampers and all rubber bushings is essential before purchase.