VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT (2021)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 2,883 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
88%
Total Tests (2024)
2,883
Avg Mileage
48,544 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,732
Is the 2021 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 6 points above the national average of 82%.
At 3 years old, 88% of VOLKSWAGEN PASSATs from 2021 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 2,883 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 48,544 miles.
How does the 2021 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2021 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT has 48,544 miles on the clock, which is well above the expected 22,200 miles for a 3-year-old car. Check service history carefully, as high-mileage cars need consistent maintenance to stay reliable.
Best year to buy a VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT?
The most reliable year is the 2023 model with a 96% MOT pass rate, while the 1995 model has the lowest at 68%. The 2021 sits between the two at 88%.
How much does a 2021 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 96% | 115 | 28,795 mi |
| 2022 | 95% | 112 | 32,575 mi |
| 2021 | 88% | 2,883 | 48,544 mi |
| 2020 | 91% | 3,693 | 51,051 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 10,401 | 64,414 mi |
| 2018 | 89% | 17,765 | 78,744 mi |
| 2017 | 87% | 23,604 | 91,978 mi |
| 2016 | 86% | 25,422 | 104,333 mi |
| 2015 | 85% | 26,110 | 113,668 mi |
| 2014 | 81% | 26,568 | 119,255 mi |
| 2013 | 79% | 22,147 | 127,390 mi |
| 2012 | 78% | 25,128 | 136,337 mi |
| 2011 | 77% | 30,407 | 143,692 mi |
| 2010 | 76% | 21,533 | 142,381 mi |
| 2009 | 77% | 21,442 | 142,464 mi |
| 2008 | 75% | 17,841 | 148,772 mi |
| 2007 | 74% | 15,448 | 152,684 mi |
| 2006 | 72% | 10,368 | 152,502 mi |
| 2005 | 74% | 7,453 | 156,295 mi |
| 2004 | 73% | 6,247 | 161,943 mi |
| 2003 | 72% | 5,106 | 162,240 mi |
| 2002 | 72% | 3,237 | 159,288 mi |
| 2001 | 72% | 1,897 | 161,435 mi |
| 2000 | 68% | 891 | 164,572 mi |
| 1999 | 71% | 1,147 | 167,995 mi |
| 1998 | 71% | 946 | 154,291 mi |
| 1997 | 77% | 256 | 150,194 mi |
| 1996 | 84% | 142 | 140,487 mi |
| 1995 | 68% | 107 | 149,628 mi |
| 1994 | 73% | 86 | 126,099 mi |
| 1993 | 85% | 94 | 188,041 mi |
| 1992 | 76% | 83 | 145,928 mi |
| 1991 | 73% | 49 | 149,661 mi |
| 1990 | 81% | 54 | 146,491 mi |
Checking a specific VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2021 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT
The 2021 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT is a small family car with a 1498cc petrol engine. 2,883 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 83% of 2021 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 48,544 miles at 3 years old, VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT owners cover more miles than the average driver. High-mileage examples should be checked carefully for wear on suspension, brakes, and drivetrain components.
2021 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT Fuel Costs
The 1498cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2021 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,732 (£144/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £190 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 88% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT Reliability Trend
Newer VOLKSWAGEN PASSATs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2021 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT
At 3 years old, this is still relatively fresh. You may find examples with remaining manufacturer warranty. Depreciation is slowing but hasn't bottomed out yet. If you're flexible on year, the 2023 model has the highest pass rate at 96%.
Alternatives to the 2021 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2019) 91% pass rate (+3%) from 124,950 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2019) 92% pass rate (+4%) from 89,653 tests
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2019) 88% pass rate (same) from 68,639 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2020) 93% pass rate (+5%) from 52,321 tests