2013 Volkswagen Touran 1.6L Diesel · OU63 SFZ

The most recent MOT, carried out on 2 December 2025, was passed but recorded an advisory concerning the nearside rear tyre being slightly damaged, showing cracking and a degree of perishing. Prior to that the vehicle failed a single test in December 2023 due to a fractured off‑side rear coil spring, a fault that appears to have been rectified as the subsequent 2024 test passed. Since the spring repair the MOT record shows only tyre‑related advisories and a light oil mist on the off‑side front shock absorber in 2022, indicating a generally stable maintenance trend with the major structural issue already addressed but tyre wear remaining a recurring concern. With a recorded 53,191 miles on a 2013 model, the average annual mileage is roughly 4,100 mi, well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 000 mi per year. This low figure suggests the vehicle has spent considerable periods idle, which can be as consequential as high mileage in terms of component ageing. Prolonged standing can accelerate rubber perishing, battery sulphation, and corrosion of suspension bushings and brake hardware, while the modest wear on the drivetrain and engine components is likely to be minimal given the limited mileage. Prospective buyers should give the tyre set close scrutiny. The nearside rear tyre already shows age‑related cracking and should be replaced imminently; the off‑side front and nearside front tyres are reported as being close to the legal tread limit and exhibit edge wear, a sign of possible mis‑alignment or uneven loading. On a test drive listen for thumping or vibration that may indicate uneven tyre wear, and inspect the sidewalls for dry rot, especially given the vehicle’s age. Verify that the off‑side rear coil spring repair was performed to specification and check the rear suspension for any clunking, excessive bounce or asymmetrical movement, which could reveal hidden fatigue in the remaining spring or bushings. The light oil mist on the front shock absorber noted in 2022 should be re‑examined; any oil seepage or a soft, spongy feel when compressing the front suspension may point to deteriorating damper seals that will need replacement. Given the vehicle’s age and low‑usage profile, a thorough age‑related inspection is essential. Test the 12 V battery for cranking voltage and inspect for terminal corrosion; a battery older than four years may be nearing the end of its service life. Examine brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and ensure pads have adequate thickness, as standing can cause discs to seize or develop uneven wear. Confirm that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed within the recommended intervals (typically every two years for brake fluid and coolant); fluid colour and condition can be assessed visually and by a simple smell test for burnt oil. Finally, look for any signs of chassis or under‑body corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and verify that the service book contains regular oil changes and any recall work relevant to the model. These checks will help ensure that the low mileage has not masked age‑related deterioration and that the vehicle remains mechanically sound for continued road use.