2005 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · RF55 KOA

The vehicle is currently roadworthy following a clean pass in March 2026 at 137,698 miles. The maintenance trend shows a period of improvement after a significant failure in early 2025. While the car failed the 2025 test due to a fractured offside rear anti-roll bar and excessive smoke emissions, the subsequent pass indicates that these mechanical issues were addressed. The lack of recent advisories suggests the current owner is reactive to MOT-critical failures rather than allowing minor safety faults to persist. At 21 years old, the recorded mileage of 137,698 miles represents an annual average of approximately 6,557 miles, which is consistent with low-to-moderate usage. The data shows a steady accumulation pattern, with roughly 6,000 miles driven between the March 2025 and March 2026 tests. This consistent usage helps mitigate the risks of dry seals or seized components often associated with long periods of inactivity, though it does not exempt the vehicle from the natural degradation of rubber components and metal over two. A physical inspection must prioritize the structural integrity of the bodywork. The record shows a history of corrosion starting in 2023 on the nearside front integral body structure and wheel arch, which progressed to suspension mounting areas by 2024. The buyer should inspect the wheel arches and mounting points to ensure surface rust has not transitioned into structural perforation, as the tester previously noted corrosion in these specific areas. Additionally, the 2025 failure for high smoke emissions warrants a check of the turbocharger and engine health to ensure the fix remains stable and the engine is not consuming excessive oil.