2017 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · GD66 RTX

The most recent MOT inspection for this 2017 Volkswagen Passat was a pass on 19 November 2025, following a failure during the same session. While the vehicle is currently compliant, the inspection history suggests a worsening trend in wear and tear on consumable components. The transition from a clean record in 2022 to a series of recurring advisories and a failure in 2025 indicates that the vehicle is entering a phase of its lifecycle where suspension, braking, and tyre components are reaching their service limits. The presence of multiple advisories regarding suspension bushes and brake discs, which have appeared across several consecutive years, suggests that while the vehicle is being maintained sufficiently to pass, the underlying mechanical wear is accumulating. The recorded mileage of 92,036 miles over approximately nine years equates to an annual average of roughly 10,226 miles. This usage pattern is considered typical for a diesel or petrol saloon of this class and suggests consistent, moderate road use rather than extreme motorway mileage or excessive short-trip urban driving. From a mechanical standpoint, this level of mileage is consistent with the wear observed in the MOT history, particularly regarding the degradation of rubber suspension components and the pitting of brake discs. The mileage is high enough to warrant careful scrutiny of the timing belt and water pump if they have not been replaced recently, as well as the overall health of the drivetrain and turbocharger components. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the recurring advisories regarding the front suspension arm bushes on both the nearside and offside. Worn bushes can lead to imprecise steering, uneven tyre wear, and audible clunking or knocking sounds when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces. Furthermore, the advisory regarding pitted and scored brake discs on the front axle indicates that the braking surface is degrading. During a test drive, you should listen for any grinding noises during deceleration and feel for any pedal pulsation or shuddering, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. The recent failure due to a leaking offside rear shock absorber should be verified as having been fully rectified with a replacement unit, as a leaking damper will compromise handling and cause excessive bouncing. Finally, the advisory regarding the offside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edge suggests a potential tracking or alignment issue. You must inspect the tyres closely for uneven wear patterns across the tread, as this can indicate that the suspension geometry is out of specification, which will quickly lead to premature tyre replacement. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, it is also prudent to check the condition of the 12V battery and ensure that all fluid service intervals, including brake fluid and coolant, have been adhered to according to the service book. Look for any signs of fluid weeping from the engine or gearbox and verify that the service history supports the maintenance of these critical systems.