2010 Volkswagen Transporter 2.0L Diesel · AF60 WSZ

The most recent DVSA examination on 9 February 2026 resulted in a Pass, although this followed an earlier recorded failure on the same date caused solely by a non-functioning nearside rear stop lamp, a straightforward electrical defect. Beyond that lamp, the test produced several advisories concerning front sub-frame corrosion, an offside front anti-roll bar ball joint exhibiting slight play, a deteriorated offside front CV boot categorised as a Minor, and an advisory noting brake disc wear, pitting, or scoring across all four corners. Comparing this outcome with the 2025 Pass and the earlier 2022 and 2024 tests, a clear and consistent pattern emerges: the front sub-frame corrosion has been repeatedly flagged since at least 2022, the offside front anti-roll bar ball joint play has been noted across the two most recent tests, and CV boot deterioration has been recurring on both front drive shafts since 2024. The overall trend is one of gradual deterioration rather than improvement, with multiple wear-related advisories accumulating and brake disc surface condition now warranting attention. The recorded mileage of 148,341 miles against a 2010 registration equates to an average of roughly 9,271 miles annually, which is broadly consistent with typical commercial or light fleet usage for a Volkswagen Transporter of this vintage. There are no extended gaps between MOT entries that would suggest prolonged standing, and the mileage appears to have accumulated steadily, indicating the vehicle has remained in regular service rather than being stored for long periods. For a sixteen-year-old Transporter at this mileage, mechanical wear on consumables, braking components, suspension bushes, and drivetrain joints is entirely expected, and the recorded advisories align with the sort of progressive wear one would anticipate for a working vehicle of this age and distance. Given the recurring advisories, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front sub-frame and its mounting areas, as corrosion in these zones can progress from advisory status to a structural failure item if left unchecked. During a test drive, listen for any knocking or clonking from the front suspension, particularly over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worsening anti-roll bar ball joint play or bush deterioration. The noted brake disc wear across all four corners warrants a physical inspection of disc thickness, surface condition, and any lipping on the outer edges, along with a check for binding calipers that may have contributed to uneven wear. The deteriorated CV boots on both front drive shafts are a known issue that, if ignored, will allow grease loss and eventual joint failure; they should be inspected for tears, splits, or grease fling, and a test drive should be free from any clicking or vibration under steering input. Additionally, given the 2022 advisory regarding corroded rear coil springs and a corroding exhaust system, the underbody should be thoroughly examined for rust progression, paying close attention to the spring seats, exhaust mounting points, and rear suspension components. Beyond the recorded defects, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants several age-related inspections regardless of MOT outcome. The braking system should be checked for fluid age, as moisture absorption over many years reduces effectiveness, and the 12V battery should be load-tested to confirm its state of health, particularly if the vehicle has seen intermittent use. Tyres, even if within legal tread depth, should be examined for sidewall cracking or perishing caused by age, and a thorough check of the exhaust system for leaks, weak mounts, or corrosion around the catalytic converter area is advisable. Service history should be verified to confirm regular timing belt replacement, as the 2.0-litre TDI and petrol units fitted to this generation of Transporter have prescribed change intervals, and confirmation of recent coolant, gearbox, and differential fluid changes will provide additional peace of mind. Finally, a careful inspection of the bodywork, load area floor, and rear cross members for corrosion, which is common on Transporter models of this era, should form a routine part of any viewing.