2012 Volkswagen Passat 1.6L Diesel · FR12 NGF

The vehicle presents a worsening maintenance trend characterized by increasing frequency of mechanical and consumable failures. While the most recent test on 13 January 2026 at 99,242 miles resulted in a pass, the tester flagged multiple significant advisories. These include a severely deteriorated nearside front anti-roll bar linkage dust cover and worn suspension arm bushes on both the nearside and offside fronts. The record also indicates that brake pads are wearing thin across all four wheels, suggesting that a comprehensive braking system overhaul is imminent. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 7,000 miles per year. The data shows a steady progression from 39,879 miles in 2017 to the current 99,242 miles. However, the interval between tests has become more problematic. The 2025 test at 80,465 miles involved a failure due to an exposed tyre cord on the offside rear and an inoperative daytime running light, which required rectification before passing. This pattern of failing on basic consumables like tyres and bulbs suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to vehicle upkeep. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system and braking components. The recurring mentions of worn suspension arm bushes, dating back to 2023, and the recent deterioration of the anti-roll bar linkage suggest the front end requires attention to maintain handling integrity. Given that all four brake pads were flagged as thin in the January 2026 test, a physical check of the disc thickness and caliper condition is essential to ensure the wear has not caused uneven or excessive scoring. The history also highlights intermittent electronic issues, such as the ABS and supplementary restraint system warning lights flagged in June 2020. Although these were cleared, the tendency for lighting and tyre-related failures suggests the vehicle has been driven on marginal components. Checking the condition of the tyres for uneven wear, as noted in the 2025 record, is necessary to rule out underlying alignment or suspension geometry issues.