2016 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · KX16 VGK

The vehicle remains technically roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a worsening trend regarding structural corrosion and component wear. The most recent test in July 2025 at 168,071 miles flagged an extensive list of advisories involving the suspension, coil springs, and rear sub-frame. While the car consistently passes, the increasing frequency of corroded components and worn bushes suggests that the vehicle is reaching a stage where preventative maintenance is being overlooked in favour of reactive repairs only to pass immediate MOT failures. This Passat has covered significant mileage for its age, averaging approximately 16,800 miles per year. Between July 2023 and July 2025, the vehicle clocked 22,844 miles, indicating consistent high-speed use. This rate of accumulation suggests the car is likely used for long-distance motorway travel rather than long periods of standing stationary. However, the high mileage naturally accelerates the wear and tear on rubberized and metal components, which aligns with the recurring reports of worn suspension arm pins across the last four test records. A buyer must prioritise a thorough physical inspection of the rear sub-frame and suspension arms, as corrosion has been a persistent theme since at least 2022. The tester noted the sub-frame was corroded but not yet seriously weakened in 2024 and 2025, but on a vehicle of this age, structural integrity is a primary concern. The rear coil springs have been flagged as corroded for multiple years, which increases the risk of sudden failure under load. Further attention should be paid to the brakes and consumables. The record shows a pattern of neglecting basic upkeep; the offside front tyre was found worn to the legal limit in both 2024 and 2025, and rear brake discs were noted as pitted and scored in 2023 and 2024. Given the history of a damaged windscreen and deteriorating registration plates, the owner appears to address minor issues only when they become a failure point. A prospective buyer should verify that the current mechanical components and tyres have actually been replaced since the last advisories were issued.