2016 Volkswagen Passat 2.0L Diesel · YA65 SRZ

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a trend of reactive rather than proactive care. The most recent test on 15 July 2025 at 116,946 miles resulted in a pass following a failure for an illegible registration plate and multiple defects. While the car passed its latest inspection, the recurring nature of thinning brake components and suspension issues across multiple years suggests that parts are only addressed once they reach a point of failure or advisory. At 116,946 miles over ten years, the Passat has followed a consistent average usage pattern of approximately 11,700 miles per year. The data shows steady progression between tests, with 8,241 miles covered between August 2023 and July 2024, and another 7,723 miles between July 2024 and July 2025. This stable mileage indicates the vehicle is used regularly, which explains the accelerated wear seen on consumable items like brake pads and suspension components noted in the record. A buyer must conduct a close physical inspection of the braking system and rear suspension. The record shows thinning pads on both front and rear axles in 2024 and 2025, with discs already noted as worn as early as 2023. Furthermore, the offside rear shock absorber showed oil misting in July 2025, following a fractured nearside coil spring in July 2024. These indicators suggest the rear suspension assembly is under significant stress and may require comprehensive component replacement to prevent further failures. Attention is also required for the interior safety and exterior condition. The offside rear seat belt has been flagged as damaged or frayed in three consecutive tests dating back to 2023, representing a persistent defect that has not been rectified. Given the current date is June 2026 and the last MOT was nearly a year ago, the vehicle is due for a retest shortly. The buyer should verify that the registration plate has been replaced or restored, as the previous failure for illegibility suggests the material has suffered significant environmental degradation.