2012 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · SW12 RKX

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the recent maintenance history indicates a sharp decline in mechanical standards. While the Passat passed its latest February 2026 test at 107,853 miles, this followed a comprehensive failure just four days prior at 107,848 miles. The transition from a clean record in 2024 to multiple structural failures suggests that the owner has only responded to MOT-related defects rather than performing preventative maintenance. At 107,853 miles over fourteen years, the car averages approximately 7,700 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. The data shows a period of stability between 2023 and 2024 where the car passed with no recorded defects. However, the accumulation of nearly 18,000 miles between February 2024 and February 2026 coincides with the appearance of significant wear across multiple components, indicating that the parts are reaching the end of their functional life simultaneously. A buyer must conduct a close inspection of the front suspension assembly to ensure the recent repairs were carried out correctly. The February 2026 failure identified fractured front coil springs on both sides, worn anti-roll bar linkages, and excessively worn suspension arm bushes. Given that these components were already flagged as worn in 2025, the owner clearly deferred replacement until the parts actually failed. The buyer should check for signs of premature wear or poor fitment on newly installed parts. The braking system also requires scrutiny. The tester found that the nearside rear brake pads were dangerously thin and the disc was significantly worn in early 2026. While the front discs were noted as worn but not excessive, the overall state of the rear brakes suggests a reactive approach to safety-critical components. Verify the remaining life on the front discs and ensure the recent work on the rear components has not resulted in binding calipers or uneven pad wear.