2021 Volkswagen Passat R-Line TDI S-A 2.0L Diesel · EE66 DAN

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 2 September 2025 records no defects and a clean pass, demonstrating that the vehicle satisfied all statutory roadworthiness requirements at that time. Looking at the broader DVSA history, there is also a prior clean pass dated 22 May 2024, with a single failed entry recorded on 28 August 2025 that, notably, carries no defect information against it. A failure without any defect notes is unusual but can occasionally occur where a tester is unable to complete the assessment, a vehicle is presented in an untestable condition, or administrative reasons prevent the issue of a pass certificate. Crucially, the very same vehicle was presented again five days later on 2 September 2025 and passed with no advisories or defects recorded, which strongly suggests any underlying concern was resolved and that the maintenance trend is currently stable rather than deteriorating. In terms of mileage, the vehicle is approximately five years old with 31,866 recorded miles, equating to around 6,373 miles annually. This is broadly consistent with typical usage for a privately driven diesel estate or saloon of this age, indicating neither excessive long-distance use nor extended periods of standing. Diesel automatic Passats of this generation often accumulate the bulk of their mileage on motorway commutes, a usage profile that is generally favourable for wear progression on components such as the dual-clutch or torque converter automatic transmission and the turbocharged diesel engine, provided the required service intervals have been observed. With only modest annual mileage, however, it remains sensible to confirm that the vehicle has been regularly exercised and properly warmed through, as short journeys and infrequent use can lead to issues such as Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) saturation, oil dilution from repeated cold starts, and premature 12V battery degradation. Given the clean MOT record and moderate mileage, there are no specific recurring advisories to investigate, but a prospective buyer should still conduct a thorough physical inspection appropriate to the vehicle's age. Tyres should be examined closely for both tread depth and, more importantly given the calendar age of the car, sidewall perishing or cracking caused by UV exposure and ozone degradation even where tread remains legal. Brake discs and calipers should be inspected for surface corrosion and any signs of binding, particularly as the rear caliper mechanisms on VAG products can seize during periods of light use. The condition and age of the 12V battery should be checked, as units beyond four to five years commonly exhibit reduced cranking performance, and a diagnostic read of the Battery Monitoring Sensor (BMS) state of health can be requested. All fluid levels and, crucially, fluid ages should be verified: brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and typically requires renewal every two years regardless of mileage, while the DSG or automatic transmission fluid and diesel fuel filter should be inspected against the manufacturer's service schedule to ensure compliance with the long-life servicing regime. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to the behaviour of the automatic gearbox, ensuring smooth and timely shifts without hesitation, juddering, or unexpected kick-downs. Listen for any suspension clonks or knocks over speed bumps and uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn top mounts, anti-roll bar drop links, or suspension bushes common on higher-mileage VAG products. The diesel engine should be observed for excessive smoke on start-up, any rough idle, or signs of turbo lag, and the DPF should be confirmed as healthy through a regeneration cycle either observed during driving or via diagnostic live data. Finally, verify the service book or digital service history to confirm that the long-life oil change intervals and any timing belt or cambelt service requirements have been observed at the correct intervals, as neglecting these on a turbocharged diesel can result in significant mechanical consequences.