2009 Volkswagen Touran 1.9L Diesel · GL09 EVB

The most recent DVSA examination on 25 April 2025 resulted in a Pass, although the tester recorded an advisory concerning slight play in both front track rod end ball joints together with a minor failure item noting severely deteriorated constant velocity joint boots on both front drive shafts. Tracking the broader history, the vehicle has demonstrated a clear pattern of accumulating advisories rather than outright failures, with only one recorded Fail across the available MOT records. That Fail, dated 5 April 2024, was triggered by a fractured offside front coil spring, an item which was presumably rectified to allow the same-day Pass. Across 2022 through 2025, the advisory count has steadily grown year on year, covering brake discs, suspension components, tyres and structural areas, indicating a progressively aging chassis and consumables rather than any sudden deterioration. The overall maintenance trend therefore appears stable in terms of legal compliance but gradually worsening in terms of component condition, which is entirely consistent with a seventeen-year-old vehicle. Recorded mileage stands at 100,574 miles over approximately seventeen years, equating to an average annual usage of around 5,916 miles, which is substantially below the typical mileage for a vehicle of this age and type. This low annual figure suggests either a pattern of predominantly short journeys, or extended periods of standing between uses, both of which carry their own mechanical implications. Short journeys tend to prevent the engine, transmission and exhaust system from reaching full operating temperature, accelerating oil degradation, promoting internal corrosion in the exhaust system and contributing to moisture accumulation within the engine oil. Conversely, prolonged standing can lead to brake disc corrosion, binding or seized calipers, deterioration of rubber components such as boots, bushes and gaiters, and 12V battery depletion. The presence of rear brake binding advisories in 2021 aligns with this latter concern. For a prospective buyer, the recurring advisories warrant a focused physical inspection and test drive evaluation. The persistent brake disc wear advisories, particularly the pitted and scored rear discs noted in 2024, mean the discs are likely approaching or at the minimum thickness and may exhibit judder or vibration under braking, especially at higher speeds or during the first application from cold. The track rod end play flagged in 2025 should be confirmed by a garage using a proper play detector, as excess movement will produce imprecise steering, uneven front tyre wear particularly on the inner or outer edges, and a wandering sensation at speed. The deteriorated constant velocity boots, if not already replaced, will allow grease loss and ingress of dirt and moisture, leading to eventual joint failure typically announced by a clicking noise on full lock, particularly when reversing. The fractured coil spring previously recorded and the corroded rear suspension arms and sub-frame should prompt a thorough underbody examination, ideally on a ramp, checking for any subsequent cracking, sagging of the coil, knocking noises over bumps or reduced ride quality. Given the low annual mileage, a buyer should additionally verify the age of all tyres, as rubber degrades regardless of tread depth; the recorded tyre perishing advisories across multiple tests suggest the wheels currently fitted may be relatively fresh, but any tyre older than five years from its DOT date stamp should be viewed with caution. The 12V battery should be load tested, as standing use commonly shortens battery life, and the charging system confirmed. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and should ideally be renewed every two years regardless of mileage, so the service history should confirm when this was last carried out, along with coolant, timing belt and automatic transmission fluid if applicable to this Touran variant. The engine oil and filter should be checked for evidence of short-journey sludge or emulsion from coolant contamination, and a cold start should be observed for excessive timing chain rattle, a known concern on some VW petrol units. Finally, a careful walk around in daylight and a steady test drive over uneven road surfaces will help confirm whether any of the previously advised suspension or braking concerns have progressed into audible or tactile symptoms.