2020 Volkswagen Passat SEL TDI S-A 1.6L Diesel · SA09 BOS

The most recent DVSA examination on 21 January 2026 resulted in a clean pass with no defects or advisories recorded, continuing a positive trend that has prevailed throughout the available MOT history. Across the four tests presented, the vehicle has consistently achieved pass status, with the only items of note being a pair of tyre-related advisories issued at the January 2024 test. The absence of recurring brake, suspension, lighting, or corrosion advisories over the subsequent tests suggests that any underlying issues identified earlier were rectified and have not reappeared, indicating a stable and well-maintained mechanical condition rather than any pattern of deterioration. With a recorded mileage of 30,672 miles over approximately six years, this Passat has covered an average of around 5,112 miles annually, which is notably low for a diesel saloon of this class. Such limited usage is typical of a second car, a long-distance commuter who favours alternative transport, or a vehicle that has spent considerable periods standing. While low mileage preserves the engine, clutch, and major drivetrain components, it does introduce specific age-related concerns, particularly around oil seal drying, brake caliper seizure due to infrequent actuation, and general fluid degradation that occurs purely with calendar time rather than through use. Diesel particulate filter function can also become compromised through insufficiently sustained operating temperatures during short journeys. Given the vehicle's age and relatively modest annual mileage, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the condition of the tyres beyond simply their tread depth. Rubber compounds deteriorate through age and UV exposure regardless of wear, so the sidewalls should be carefully inspected for cracking, perishing, or visible dry-rot, especially on the nearside which typically receives more environmental exposure. The brake system warrants close examination as well; prolonged standing can lead to corrosion on the disc friction surfaces and caliper slide pins binding, which often presents as a pulling sensation to one side under braking or an unusual grinding or scraping noise when first pulling away. A thorough road test should include several moderate to firm brake applications from higher speed to confirm the pedal feels firm, the vehicle stops squarely, and there is no vibration through the steering wheel indicative of warped or corroded discs. The 12V battery is another component that suffers disproportionately from low use, particularly on modern vehicles with continuous parasitic draws from security systems and control modules. A battery health check or voltage test under load would be prudent, and the buyer should also verify when the battery was last replaced. Equally important is the servicing record, as diesel engines are particularly sensitive to long oil change intervals; the oil, fuel filter, air filter, and in particular the timing belt or cam belt service interval should be confirmed against Volkswagen's schedule, as a six-year-old vehicle may be approaching or due for this major maintenance item. Diesel-specific items such as the condition of the dual-mass flywheel and turbocharger actuator should be listened for during a test drive, with any clutch judder, rattle on overrun, or hesitation under load noted as potential concerns. Finally, given the DSG automatic transmission, confirming that the gearbox oil and filter have been serviced at the prescribed intervals will be important to the long-term durability of this drivetrain.