2004 Volkswagen Touran 1.9L Diesel · WO04 AAN

The most recent MOT, carried out on 21 December 2024, was passed but returned a number of advisories, notably tyre tread approaching the legal limit, corrosion of the rear sub‑frame, and corrosion on both rear coil springs. Earlier in the same year the vehicle also passed, yet the same corrosion items and a corroded rear brake pipe were flagged, and a separate test on 6 January 2024 recorded a dangerous rear‑tyre bulge and a non‑functioning front position lamp. The pattern shows that while the vehicle is currently road‑legal, corrosion and tyre wear have been persistent issues and have not been fully resolved, indicating a maintenance trend that is relatively stable but with recurring concerns that need attention. At 177,718 miles the Touran averages roughly 8,000 miles per year, which is typical for a 22‑year‑old family MPV. The mileage does not suggest excessive short‑trip abuse, but the relatively modest annual distance also implies periods of low utilisation or extended storage, both of which can accelerate age‑related deterioration such as rubber hardening, battery sulphation and corrosion of chassis components. The recorded mileage is consistent with the wear observed on the tyres and the corrosion noted on the sub‑frame and springs, suggesting that the vehicle has been driven enough to expose genuine wear rather than merely ageing in storage. A prospective buyer should give particular focus to the tyre condition: inspect the nearside front tyre for the previously reported bulge, check tread depth on all four tyres, and look for sidewall cracking or dry rot that can develop when tyres sit for long periods. Verify that the front position lamp operates correctly and that the registration plates are legible and securely mounted. Examine the rear sub‑frame for any signs of rust spreading beyond surface corrosion, such as flaking paint, pitting, or loose bolts, and listen for clunking or rattles over bumps that could indicate weakened mounting points. The rear brake pipe, flagged for corrosion and grease contamination, should be inspected for rust, cracks, or leakage, and a brake pedal feel test should be performed to ensure there is no sponginess or shudder under hard braking. The coil springs, both front and rear, show surface corrosion; while not immediately unsafe, they should be probed for pitting that could compromise spring integrity, especially under load. Beyond the specific MOT items, the age of the vehicle warrants a thorough calendar‑based inspection. Check the 12‑volt battery for charge hold and any signs of sulphation, and consider a load test if the battery is older than five years. Verify that all fluid levels—engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid—have been changed in accordance with the service schedule, as fluids degrade over time even without mileage. Inspect suspension bushings, ball joints and the anti‑roll‑bar dust cover for excessive play or dirt ingress, which can lead to noisy handling. Finally, ensure the service book is up to date, with stamps for major services such as timing‑belt replacement (if applicable) and any previous corrosion remediation, as these records will give confidence that the recurring issues have been addressed appropriately.