2010 Volkswagen Touran 1.6L Petrol · DF59 VPD

The latest MOT test on 2026-04-01 resulted in a passing outcome, though it was accompanied by several persistent advisories that indicate ongoing but manageable issues rather than outright failures. The overall maintenance trend appears to be stable rather than deteriorating, as the vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2023-04-26, with the most recent failure occurring two years prior. The recurring advisories—particularly regarding the front and rear suspension arms showing corrosion but not serious structural weakness, and the front shock absorbers exhibiting light oil misting—suggest that while wear is present, the vehicle remains roadworthy without immediate critical defects. However, the presence of an ABS and ESC fault from the 2026-03-24 failure, alongside the supplementary restraint system warning, indicates that these electronic systems require attention to avoid future MOT failures, especially if the faults persist or worsen. The recorded mileage of 73,241 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 16 years represents a relatively low annual usage rate of around 4,578 miles per year, which is notably lower than the typical mileage accumulation for a car of this age and model. Such low mileage can sometimes reflect periods of prolonged inactivity, which may contribute to issues like standing corrosion, particularly in the suspension arms and undercarriage, as observed in the MOT history. However, low mileage alone does not guarantee the absence of wear from previous use, and the vehicle may still have experienced gradual degradation in consumables, such as brake pads, seals, or fluids, which could have been overlooked due to infrequent driving. The absence of rapid mileage accumulation suggests that wear on drivetrain components, such as the transmission or exhaust system, is less likely to be severe, but this should not be assumed without further inspection. Given the recurring advisories on the suspension arms and shock absorbers, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the undercarriage and front suspension during the test drive. Focus on the rear lower suspension arms for signs of excessive corrosion or binding, which could lead to uneven ride quality or potential failure if left unaddressed. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the rear suspension during cornering or over bumps, as this may indicate worn or deteriorated suspension bushes or broken control arm mounts. The front shock absorbers should be checked for excessive rebound or compression damping, which could manifest as a bouncy ride or uneven tyre wear. If the oil misting is confirmed to be severe, the shock absorbers may need replacement sooner than anticipated, as misting can accelerate internal wear. Additionally, the ABS and ESC faults from the 2026-03-24 MOT failure must be resolved before the vehicle is considered fully compliant. The buyer should arrange a diagnostic check to confirm the nature of the faults—whether they are minor electrical issues or more serious sensor or control module problems—and ensure they are rectified promptly. The supplementary restraint system warning lamp should also be addressed, as a faulty airbag or seatbelt pretensioner could pose a safety risk. Beyond the MOT advisories, the buyer should verify the condition of the brake discs, which were noted as worn, pitted, or scored in the 2023-04-26 MOT. Inspect the discs for uneven wear, cracks, or glazing, and check for binding calipers or excessive heat damage, which could indicate brake fluid degradation or hydraulic system issues. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, the buyer should examine the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur even with minimal use over time, and ensure the 12V battery is in good health, as standing vehicles can suffer from slow discharge or corrosion in terminals. Fluid levels, such as coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, should also be checked for freshness and contamination, as fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage.