2011 Volkswagen Passat 1.6L Diesel · FT60 WMU

The most recent DVSA test on 24 March 2017 resulted in a failure, principally for excessive play in the nearside anti‑roll bar ball joint and both front tyres being below the legal 1.6 mm tread depth. Over the preceding three years the record shows a pattern of recurring front‑tyre wear and a gradual deterioration of the anti‑roll bar linkage, moving from advisory notes in 2014‑15 to outright failures in 2016‑17. While the vehicle has passed several earlier tests, the trend is clearly worsening rather than stabilising, indicating that key suspension and tyre components have not been adequately refreshed. At 85,031 miles on a 2011 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 5,700 mi, which is well below the UK average for a car of this age. The low utilisation suggests periods of limited use or prolonged storage, which can be as detrimental as high mileage in terms of rubber perishing, battery sulphation and fluid breakdown. However, the concentration of wear on the front tyres despite modest overall mileage points to either aggressive driving style, mis‑alignment, or a lack of regular tyre rotation, all of which can accelerate suspension component fatigue. A prospective buyer should give the front tyre condition immediate attention; the tread depth must be measured and any tyre with less than 3 mm considered for replacement, as thin tread can mask underlying alignment or camber issues. During a test drive listen for clunking or looseness when steering over bumps, which would confirm the anti‑roll bar play noted in the MOT failures. Inspect the anti‑roll bar bushings and ball joints for excessive movement, corrosion or cracked rubber, and verify that the steering rack and tie‑rod ends are tight. The 2014 advisories about front and rear brake discs being pitted or scored, although not yet a failure, merit a visual inspection of disc surface for deep scoring or glazing, and a brake pedal feel check for pulsation or increased stopping distances. Given the vehicle’s age and low annual mileage, additional age‑related checks are prudent. Examine all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, as rubber can degrade even on unused tyres. Verify the 12‑volt battery’s cranking voltage and inspect for any signs of sulphation or leaking electrolyte, especially if the car has been stored for extended periods. Confirm that all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids – have been changed according to the manufacturer’s calendar schedule, as fluids can deteriorate over time irrespective of mileage. Finally, look for rust or corrosion on the chassis, suspension mounting points and under‑tray, and ensure the timing belt (if fitted) has been replaced within the recommended interval, typically around 100 000 mi or 10 years for this model.