2016 Volkswagen Touran 1.6L Diesel · AF66 MTO

The 2016 Volkswagen Touran’s most recent MOT test on 2026-09-01 resulted in a clean pass, indicating that no roadworthiness defects were found at that time. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and failures that suggest underlying issues requiring attention. The most notable recurring advisory concerns the rear tyres, with both near-side and offside tyres showing signs of cracking or perishing in multiple tests, particularly in 2022 and 2025. Additionally, the 2024 MOT highlighted headlamp aim issues, which, while not critical, may indicate alignment or mounting problems that could worsen with continued use. The presence of a dangerous failure in 2021—where the near-side front tyre’s tread depth was below the legal minimum—signifies a critical flaw that should not have been overlooked, reinforcing the need for thorough inspection. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 37,823 miles at the time of this assessment is unusually low for a ten-year-old car, averaging just 3,782 miles per year. Such a low mileage rate often suggests periods of prolonged inactivity, which can exacerbate issues like corrosion, fluid degradation, and wear from static conditions. For instance, standing tyres can develop uneven wear patterns or sidewall cracking due to lack of rotation, while brakes may corrode or bind if not used regularly. Additionally, fluids like brake fluid and coolant can degrade over time when not circulated, leading to reduced effectiveness or premature failure. The absence of higher mileage accumulation in recent years does not necessarily mean the vehicle is well-maintained, as low usage can mask underlying wear that would become apparent under normal driving conditions. To proceed with a purchase, the prospective buyer should conduct a meticulous physical inspection, focusing on the tyre conditions highlighted by the MOT advisories. The near-side and offside rear tyres show signs of cracking or perishing, which could indicate underlying structural weaknesses or prolonged exposure to environmental stresses. On a test drive, listen for unusual tyre noise or vibrations, which may signal uneven wear or internal damage. Check for any visible cracks or bulges in the sidewall, as these can compromise tyre integrity. The offside front tyre’s wear close to the legal limit and cracking or perishing suggests it should be replaced soon, as further reduction in tread depth could lead to hydroplaning risks. Additionally, inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Beyond tyres, the buyer should verify the vehicle’s suspension and alignment. The headlamp aim issues from the 2024 MOT may require recalibration or lamp adjustment to ensure proper visibility. On inspection, check for excessive play in suspension components, such as worn suspension bushes or coil spring failures, which can lead to clunking noises when driving over bumps. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or excessive noise, as emissions-related failures could recur if the catalytic converter or oxygen sensors are degraded. Finally, assess the 12V battery and electrical systems, as low usage can lead to a weak battery or failing starter motor. Check for corrosion around battery terminals and test the battery’s charge capacity. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, consider a service history review to confirm any time-based maintenance, such as fluid top-ups or timing belt replacement, which may have been deferred due to infrequent use. If possible, arrange a professional inspection to confirm the absence of hidden mechanical issues that could become critical under normal driving conditions.