2012 Volkswagen Touran 1.6L Diesel · AJ12 ABK

The most recent MOT, carried out on 30 January 2026, was passed but returned several advisories – an oil leak that is not yet excessive, corrosion on the rear sub‑frame, and wear on both front suspension arm pins or bushes. Earlier in the series of tests the same oil leak persisted, tyre wear on the nearside rear was repeatedly flagged, and an ABS fault caused a failure in both the 2025 and 2024 examinations. Although the vehicle has now cleared the test, the recurrence of these items indicates a maintenance trend that is gradually worsening rather than stabilising, and the unresolved ABS fault remains a concern that should be addressed promptly. At 272 051 mi the 2012 Touran has logged an average of roughly 19 400 mi per year, well above the typical UK passenger‑car usage of around 10‑12 000 mi annually. Such high mileage accelerates wear on engine and transmission internals, driveshaft universal joints, suspension bushings, brake components and tyre tread. The mileage pattern suggests the vehicle has been subject to sustained, possibly high‑speed or commercial‑type duty rather than long periods of inactivity, which means that consumables are likely approaching the end of their service life and that hidden fatigue in load‑bearing parts may be present. A prospective buyer should begin by locating the source of the oil leak – common points on a Touran of this age include the valve‑cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket and the cam‑shaft chain tensioner cover. Look for fresh oil on the sump and on the underside of the engine, and verify that the oil level is stable after a short run. The rear sub‑frame corrosion should be inspected visually and by feel; any rust‑spotted welds or loosened mounting bolts could compromise structural rigidity and should be treated or reinforced. The front suspension arm pins and bushings flagged as worn may manifest as clunking noises when negotiating bumps, a vague steering wander or uneven tyre wear; a thorough check of the wishbone bushings for play and a test‑drive over a speed‑bump are advisable. The front brake discs, noted as worn but not yet excessive, should be measured for thickness and examined for scoring; any pulsation in the pedal or shudder when applying the brakes would indicate that the discs are nearing the point of replacement. The recurring ABS warning must be diagnosed with a proper scan tool – a faulty wheel‑speed sensor, damaged wiring harness or failing ABS control unit are typical culprits and should be rectified before reliance on electronic stability functions. Given the vehicle’s age and high mileage, additional time‑based inspections are prudent. Examine all tyres for side‑wall cracking, dry‑rot or age‑related hardening, especially on the nearside rear which has already shown edge wear; replacement may be required regardless of tread depth. Test the 12 V battery’s cranking amperage and check for sulphation, as a 14‑year‑old battery is likely near the end of its service life. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been flushed within the recommended two‑year intervals; discoloured or milky fluids are a sign of degradation. Finally, review the service book for evidence of regular oil changes, timing‑belt (or chain) service, and any major over‑hauls; any gaps in the recorded maintenance should be investigated further before committing to purchase.