2010 Volkswagen Touran 1.9L Diesel · LC59 LLK

The most recent MOT inspection for this 2010 Volkswagen Touran was a pass on 31 May 2024, following a failure earlier that same month. The maintenance trend appears somewhat inconsistent and shows signs of reactive rather than proactive upkeep. While the vehicle has passed several consecutive tests, the 2024 failure was significant, involving multiple electrical issues, an anti-roll bar linkage defect, parking brake inefficiency, and an exhaust emissions failure. The presence of recent advisories regarding oil misting on both front and rear shock absorbers suggests that while the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the suspension components are entering a phase of progressive degradation that will require attention in the near future. With 139,128 miles recorded over approximately sixteen years, the vehicle has covered an average of roughly 8,700 miles per year. This level of usage is considered typical for a family vehicle of this age and suggests a consistent, moderate driving profile rather than extreme motorway use or excessive short-trip urban driving. From a mechanical standpoint, this mileage indicates that major wear-and-tear components such as the timing belt, water pump, and various suspension bushings are likely nearing the end of their service life or have already been replaced. The steady accumulation of mileage reduces the likelihood of issues caused by prolonged periods of standing, such as seized calipers or perished rubber, though it does mean the drivetrain and exhaust systems have undergone significant thermal cycling and mechanical stress. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the suspension and braking systems during a test drive. The advisories for oil misting on the shock absorbers indicate that the internal seals are beginning to fail; you should listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as this indicates the dampers are no longer effectively controlling movement. Furthermore, the history of parking brake inefficiency and advisories regarding handbrake adjustment suggests the mechanism may be prone to sticking or requiring frequent tensioning. During your inspection, check for any uneven tyre wear, particularly on the inner edges, as previous records have highlighted issues with tyre wear patterns that could indicate underlying wheel alignment or suspension geometry problems. The 2024 failure regarding exhaust emissions is a critical point to investigate. While the vehicle passed, an emissions failure can sometimes be a precursor to issues with the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, or fuel injection systems. During the test drive, monitor the engine for any hesitation, rough idling, or excessive smoke from the tailpipe, which could indicate that the emissions issue was not fully resolved or is likely to recur. Additionally, given the age of the vehicle, you should verify the service history to ensure that fluids, such as brake fluid and coolant, have been changed according to manufacturer intervals rather than just when a failure occurs. Check the condition of all rubber hoses and belts for signs of cracking or perishing, which is common in vehicles of this vintage regardless of mileage.