2012 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · RV62 ASO

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a shift toward reactive repairs rather than proactive upkeep. While the most recent test in January 2026 at 145,880 miles identified pitting and scoring on both front and rear inner brake discs, this follows a pattern seen back in 2018 at 67,232 miles, suggesting that braking components are often left until they show visible degradation or borderline failure. At 145,880 miles over 14 years, the Passat averages a usage of approximately 10,400 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. The history shows consistent use, with a notable jump of over 15,000 miles between the November 2019 and December 2020 tests. There are no long periods of inactivity that would suggest seal-related issues, though the high annual mileage naturally places significant stress on wear-and-tear suspension and drivetrain components. A buyer must conduct a close inspection of the front suspension geometry. The December 2024 test at 138,219 miles flagged worn suspension arm bushes on both sides and play in the nearside rear anti-roll bar linkage. Because these were noted as advisories or allowed as a pass, you should verify if these rubber components have been replaced, as worn bushes affect handling precision and uneven tyre wear. The record also reveals a history of neglecting basic consumable maintenance, evidenced by multiple failures in 2017 and 2021 due to insufficient tyre tread depth and faulty wipers. This indicates the previous owners only addressed issues when forced by an MOT failure. A physical inspection should focus on the current state of all four tyres, the condition of the brake discs, and any signs of corrosion on the chassis, though the vehicle has remained relatively clean of structural failures to date.