2012 Volkswagen Touran 1.6L Diesel · LL12 VOF

The most recent MOT test for this 2012 Volkswagen Touran was conducted on 2025-10-20, resulting in a passing grade, though it revealed persistent wear-related advisories in the suspension system. The overall maintenance trend over the past few years shows a pattern of recurring issues rather than a clear improvement, with multiple advisories and major failures in suspension components—particularly the front anti-roll bar linkage ball joints, rear suspension arms, and shock absorbers—indicating ongoing wear progression. While the vehicle passed the latest inspection, the presence of multiple advisories from prior tests suggests that the suspension components are nearing critical limits, and without timely intervention, further failures could compromise roadworthiness and handling stability. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 89,455 miles at the time of assessment corresponds to an average annual usage of approximately 6,390 miles, which is relatively typical for a 14-year-old car, though not exceptionally high. The mileage data does not suggest significant periods of inactivity, which could have allowed certain components to degrade from prolonged standing, such as brake systems or fluid systems. However, the consistent wear patterns in the suspension and drivetrain components—evident in both the high mileage and repeated MOT findings—highlight that the vehicle has undergone substantial usage, accelerating wear on critical moving parts like ball joints, bushings, and shock absorbers. This combination of mileage and defect history underscores the need for proactive maintenance to prevent premature failure of these systems. For a prospective buyer, this Volkswagen Touran presents a number of critical areas to inspect and address before purchase. The front and rear suspension advisories, particularly the worn ball joints and suspension arm bushings, indicate that the vehicle may exhibit noticeable handling irregularities during a test drive, such as excessive play in steering or clunking noises from the suspension when moving over bumps or at speed. Listen for any irregular clunks or rattles in the front and rear suspension, especially when the vehicle is driven over rough roads or when accelerating or braking. Inspect the suspension components visually for signs of excessive wear, such as cracked or deformed bushings, and check for fluid leaks around the shock absorbers, which could indicate internal failure. The recent MOT also flagged worn brake discs and thin brake pads, suggesting that the braking system may require attention soon. Test the braking performance for any signs of softness, shuddering, or uneven wear patterns, and verify that the brake discs are not warped or corroded, which could lead to binding calipers or reduced stopping efficiency. Beyond the immediate suspension and braking concerns, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant a thorough inspection of other high-wear areas. Given the 14-year age and 89,455 miles, check the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with low mileage if the rubber has been exposed to prolonged environmental conditions. Inspect the tyres for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate misalignment or suspension issues, and ensure that the tread depth is within legal limits. The drivetrain, particularly the differential and transmission, may also require attention due to the high mileage; listen for unusual grinding or whining noises when shifting gears or accelerating, which could signal worn gears or seals. Additionally, verify the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant, as these fluids degrade over time and should be replaced according to the manufacturer’s service schedule. Finally, consider the battery health, as a 14-year-old vehicle may experience reduced charge retention or internal corrosion, which could lead to starting difficulties or electrical system failures. A simple battery voltage check and inspection for corrosion on terminals and the battery case should be part of the due diligence. If possible, obtain a service history to confirm that scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes and fluid top-ups, has been conducted regularly.