2017 Volkswagen Touareg 3.0L Diesel · SB 106

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2017 Volkswagen Touareg was conducted on 2026-07-11, resulting in a passing outcome with a single advisory. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of recurring major defects related to coil spring failures, particularly on both the nearside and offside rear positions, which were recorded in 2024, 2025, and 2026. These failures indicate a systemic issue with the suspension’s structural integrity, likely stemming from either manufacturing defects, excessive wear, or improper servicing. The fact that the vehicle passed the latest MOT despite these prior incidents suggests that either the defects have been addressed in a way that temporarily restored compliance or that the inspection focused on superficial aspects rather than deeper mechanical assessments. This trend is cause for concern, as coil springs are critical for maintaining ride height, load distribution, and handling stability, and their failure can lead to uneven tyre wear, excessive body roll, and compromised safety. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 93,810 miles at the time of this assessment represents an average annual usage rate of approximately 10,423 miles, which is on the higher end for a nine-year-old Touareg but not unusually so for a model known for robust performance under moderate to heavy use. The consistency of mileage accumulation suggests regular driving conditions, though the absence of significant gaps in the MOT history could imply either infrequent checks or a history of standing the vehicle for extended periods, which may accelerate wear on components like brakes, tyres, and suspension. The high mileage also implies that consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and fluids have likely undergone significant stress, warranting careful inspection of their condition to avoid unexpected failures during ownership. Given the recurring coil spring failures and the advisory on near-side rear tyre wear, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough mechanical inspection before purchase. Focus on the suspension system by checking for any signs of excessive play or binding in the rear coil springs, particularly around the mounting points where they attach to the chassis or subframe. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises during acceleration, braking, or cornering, which may indicate loose or degraded suspension components. Inspect the rear tyres for uneven wear patterns, which could suggest coil spring misalignment or imbalance, and verify that the tread depth is well above the legal minimum. Additionally, examine the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or binding calipers, as prolonged standing can exacerbate these issues. If the coil spring failures were not addressed with new components, the buyer should consider the cost of replacement, as these parts are critical to the vehicle’s structural integrity and handling. For practical checks beyond the MOT history, the buyer should verify the tyre condition for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure and compromise safety over time. Inspect the vehicle’s fluid levels, including the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, for any signs of contamination or degradation, as these fluids degrade with age even when not in use. Check the 12-volt battery for signs of corrosion on terminals or a reduced charge capacity, which can lead to poor starting performance or electrical system failures. Finally, review the vehicle’s service history to confirm that scheduled maintenance, such as wheel alignment, suspension servicing, and fluid top-ups, has been conducted according to manufacturer recommendations. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, a comprehensive inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly advised to assess the condition of internal components like the drivetrain, exhaust system, and electrical systems, which may not have been addressed in the MOT test.