2010 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · EX10 AJY

Corroded coil springs on both the front and rear axles dominate the vehicle’s MOT narrative; advisories appear in 2021, 2022 and again in 2022 for multiple springs, and a major failure was recorded in August 2021 when the off‑side front coil spring fractured. The most recent test in July 2024 passed without any recorded defects, indicating that no further spring failure was detected at that time, but the pattern of corrosion suggests a lingering structural weakness that could re‑emerge if the underlying rust is not addressed. At 63,569 miles the car averages just under 4,000 miles per year, a mileage level that is low for a sixteen‑year‑old Passat. Such modest annual use often points to periods of light duty or extended storage, which can exacerbate corrosion on suspension components while reducing wear on drivetrain parts. The MOT record shows no large gaps in testing, with annual checks from 2018 onward, so the mileage figure is likely reliable and not the result of unrecorded high‑usage periods. Prospective buyers should give the suspension a thorough examination. Listen for clunking or knocking over bumps, especially on the front axle, as these symptoms can betray a weakened or cracked spring. Inspect the anti‑roll bar linkage on the nearside for a compromised dust cover, which could allow dirt ingress and accelerate wear of the ball joint; any looseness or play in the bar when the steering wheel is turned is a red flag. Because the vehicle has a history of tyre edges and inside‑edge wear, a full tyre inspection and a professional wheel‑alignment check are advisable to confirm that the suspension geometry is still within specification and to prevent premature tyre degradation. Finally, while the 2024 MOT shows no current failures, the recurring coil‑spring corrosion and the 2021 fracture mean that replacement of the affected springs and a detailed inspection of associated mounting points should be factored into any purchase price. Verify that the new or refurbished springs are correctly fitted and that any rust‑affected bushings or brackets have been treated or replaced. A comprehensive test‑drive focusing on steady‑state handling, braking balance and ride comfort will help reveal any lingering issues before committing to the vehicle.