2009 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · NG09 XSN

The Passat holds a valid MOT certificate issued on 19 September 2025 at 107,894 miles, but the maintenance trend is mixed rather than reassuring. The vehicle failed the previous day on 18 September 2025 with worn rear brake pads, scored rear brake discs, and a corroded central exhaust sleeve joint, all of which were rectified before the pass. A corrosion advisory on the central rear integral body structure and rear axle mounting area carried over from the failure into the pass, indicating the tester still considers the rust present but not yet critical. The 2024 test at 103,524 miles was entirely clean, so the sudden appearance of brake and exhaust defects in 2025 suggests a period of neglect followed by reactive repairs rather than consistent preventative maintenance. The mileage progression is broadly typical for a 2009 vehicle, averaging roughly 6,300 miles per year. The record shows 94,778 miles in September 2023, 103,524 miles in September 2024, and 107,894 miles in September 2025, indicating steady annual use of around 8,700 to 9,000 miles in recent years. There are no alarming gaps or sudden jumps in the odometer, and the vehicle appears to have been driven regularly rather than standing idle. The MOT history itself is reasonably complete, with annual tests recorded each September, giving a reliable picture of the car's condition over the last three years. A buyer should pay close attention to the rear braking system and the underside structure. The tester flagged both rear pads and discs as worn and scored in September 2025, which points to aggressive use or a binding caliper that may still be lurking. The central exhaust sleeve joint was excessively corroded at the same test, and while it was replaced to secure the pass, the surrounding exhaust and mounting points deserve a physical check for further decay. The recurring advisory for corrosion on the central rear integral body structure and rear axle mounting area is the most serious long-term concern. Although the tester judged structural rigidity not significantly reduced, rust in this location on a Passat of this age can accelerate if left untreated, and a buyer should have the underbody and load floor inspected with a torch and probe. Suspension and tyre wear patterns also warrant attention. In September 2023 the tester noted a light oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber and all four tyres worn on the inside edges, suggesting possible tracking issues or underinflation habits. The nearside rear tyre had exposed ply cords at that test, a serious condition that was clearly replaced, but the underlying alignment or suspension wear may not have been fully corrected. A test drive and four-wheel alignment check would be prudent before purchase.