2016 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · MF66 RBU

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a pattern of reactive rather than proactive care. The most recent MOT test in July 2023 at 107,807 miles passed without failures, yet it flagged three tyres as reaching the legal tread limit and showing uneven wear. This suggests the previous owner only addressed consumables once they reached the point of legal failure. While the car has passed its latest inspection, the history of suspension and brake issues indicates that mechanical upkeep is often deferred until it becomes necessary. The mileage history is highly inconsistent and raises questions regarding the accuracy of recorded data. Between September 2019 and September 2020, the vehicle covered over 31,000 miles, yet the subsequent test in September 2021 recorded a mileage of only 42,848 miles. This drop of over 84,000 miles in a single year suggests either a recording error or a significant discrepancy in usage patterns. The current average of 10,781 miles per year is typical for a ten-year-old Passat, but the gap between the 2021 and 2023 tests makes it difficult to track the actual wear rate on the drivetrain and chassis. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the suspension and braking system. The 2020 failure highlighted a serious fluid leak on the nearside rear shock absorber and a leak on the offside unit, alongside pitted rear brake discs. Given these recurring issues, an inspector should check for remaining signs of oil leakage on all shock absorbers and verify the thickness and condition of the brake rotors. The recurring uneven tyre wear noted in 2023 also points toward potential alignment issues or worn suspension bushes that could continue to prematurely devalue new tyres. The lack of consistent mileage data necessitates a close look at the interior wear on the pedals and seats to ensure they align with the odometer reading.