2010 Volkswagen Passat 1.6L Diesel · SM60 OVP

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a clear shift towards escalating wear and component degradation. While the most recent test in December 2025 at 156,486 miles passed, the accumulation of advisories indicates that the vehicle is now requiring more proactive attention. The transition from clean records in 2022 and 2023 to multiple mechanical defects recently suggests the car is entering a stage of its lifecycle that demands significant component replacement. At 156,486 miles over 16 years, the Passat has averaged approximately 9,800 miles per year, which is consistent with typical UK usage for a family saloon. The mileage progression is steady, with roughly 7,000 miles recorded between January 2024 and January 2025, and another 7,000 miles in the eleven months leading up to the December 2025 test. This consistent use explains the progressive wear on suspension and braking components that are now appearing in the MOT history. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the rear suspension and braking system. The record flags recurring corrosion issues on the rear lower suspension arms and spring mount arms across 2025 and 2026. While the tester noted these were not yet seriously weakened, the presence of rust on both sides suggests future structural integrity risks. Furthermore, the binding nearside front brake and fluctuating front brakes noted in early 2025 indicate either warped discs or sticking calipers that require verification to ensure consistent stopping performance. The history also reveals neglected basic maintenance, with rear tyres flagged as worn on the edges in both 2024 and 2025. This often indicates poor alignment geometry or missed replacement cycles. The misting on the offside rear shock absorber in the latest test is an early sign of imminent seal failure. Given the age and mileage of the vehicle, the buyer should budget for the replacement of suspension arms, shock absorbers, and a full brake service to bring the car to a reliable standard.