2011 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · FR11 RXM

Corrosion on both rear suspension arms has been a recurring advisory throughout the MOT history, appearing in the 2025 and 2026 tests and first noted on the front suspension bushes in 2019. The vehicle failed a 2022 MOT when the front suspension arm pins or bushes were judged excessively worn, but subsequent tests have shown only advisory‑level wear on the same components, suggesting the issue has not progressed to a safety‑critical failure. The latest MOT on 16 March 2026 was passed, with only minor windscreen damage and the same rear‑arm corrosion advisories persisting, indicating that the vehicle’s roadworthiness has stabilised at a level that meets the legal minimum but still carries a clear pattern of corrosion‑related wear. At 80,320 mi for a 2011 model the annual average is roughly 5,300 mi, well below the typical UK usage of 10‑12 000 mi per year. Such low mileage often points to lighter duty or periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate corrosion on exposed chassis components while simultaneously leaving many wear items relatively fresh. The relatively consistent MOT intervals – roughly yearly with no large gaps – mean the vehicle has been regularly inspected, but the mileage figure does not guarantee the condition of rust‑prone parts, especially where the rear suspension arms have been flagged repeatedly. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the rear suspension arms: look for any visible rust penetration, feel for looseness when the rear wheels are rocked, and listen for clunking noises over bumps that could indicate weakened mounting points. The front suspension arm bushes, previously recorded as excessively worn, should be checked for excessive play in the steering rack and for any knocking when applying load to the front wheels; a noticeable judder or looseness may signal that the bushes have progressed beyond advisory status. The anti‑roll bar linkage ball‑joint dust cover on the near‑side front was noted as severely deteriorated in 2024, so verify that the linkage itself is intact and that there is no abnormal movement or squeak when cornering. Tyre tread depth should be measured, especially on the front tyres which have been warned as close to the legal limit in 2021 and 2024, and the off‑side front tyre, which was flagged for edge wear in 2024. Any uneven wear could hint at lingering suspension issues. The service brake on the off‑side front was recorded as fluctuating but not excessively in 2024; a test‑drive should include a steady brake application to detect any pulsing or pull to one side. Finally, inspect the windscreen for the reported damage; while it does not affect the MOT pass, any crack propagation could become a safety concern if it impairs the driver’s view. Addressing these specific points will give a realistic picture of the car’s current mechanical state.