2004 Volkswagen Passat 1.9L Diesel · NA04 PHY

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history shows a concerning trend of deferred repairs regarding rubber wear components. The most recent test in January 2026 at 209,831 miles flagged several advisories that have persisted from previous years. Specifically, the severe deterioration of both front drive shaft CV boots and the worn anti-roll bar linkage bushes have appeared across the last three annual tests, suggesting that the owner is addressing faults only when they reach inspection limits rather than performing preventative maintenance. The mileage pattern is consistent with a well-used commuter vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 9,500 miles per year. Between February 2025 and January 2026, the car covered 8,977 miles, which indicates steady and predictable usage levels. However, the high cumulative mileage of over 200,000 miles places significant stress on the drivetrain and suspension components, which is evidenced by the recurring issues with the drive shafts and the low-wear brake pads noted in the 2024 test. A buyer must conduct a close inspection of the front drivetrain and suspension, as the recurring failure of the CV boots indicates a high risk of joint failure if not replaced immediately. The twisted offside front brake hose noted in 2023 and 2026 requires a physical check for internal degradation or abrasion that could lead to brake failure. Given the oil leak reported in 2025 and the damp intercooler noted in 2024, the engine bay and cooling system should be scrutinized for signs of active weeping that the MOT tester may overlook.