2015 Volkswagen Touran 1.6L Diesel · ST65 LWN

The most recent MOT test on the 2015 Volkswagen Touran occurred on 2025-11-24, resulting in a failure due to a persistent engine malfunction indicated by the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), alongside recurring offside rear brake disc wear advisories and a critical issue with the offside front outer track rod end ball joint dust cover being insecure. While earlier MOTs in 2024 and 2023 showed only minor or advisory defects related to brake disc wear and headlamp alignment, the 2025 failure highlights a concerning escalation in mechanical issues, particularly the engine’s internal fault and the compromised track rod end joint. The pattern suggests either a developing drivetrain or engine problem that has not been adequately addressed, or a history of intermittent standing or minor usage that has exacerbated wear on critical components like the suspension and brakes. The absence of major failures in the preceding three years before 2025 indicates that the vehicle may have been in a relatively stable condition until recent operational or maintenance neglect surfaced. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 60,684 miles at the time of this assessment represents a notably low annual usage rate of approximately 5,517 miles per year, which is unusually low for a car of this age. Typically, a 11-year-old vehicle would accumulate around 10,000 to 15,000 miles annually under normal driving conditions, suggesting either a period of prolonged inactivity, infrequent use, or a vehicle that has been kept in a stationary state for extended periods. Such conditions can accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and fluids, as well as lead to standing corrosion on components such as brake discs, calipers, and suspension elements. Additionally, low mileage does not necessarily correlate with better mechanical condition; standing vehicles are prone to issues like seized suspension linkages, degraded seals, and fluid degradation from lack of circulation, all of which can degrade roadworthiness without being reflected in mileage alone. For a prospective buyer, the most critical immediate inspection should focus on the engine and drivetrain due to the persistent MIL failure, which indicates a serious internal issue that requires professional diagnosis. The offside front outer track rod end ball joint failure, now classified as a major defect, suggests that the joint is either seized or has lost its integrity, leading to potential suspension misalignment or excessive play. During a test drive, listen for irregular clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly when negotiating bumps or turning corners, as this may indicate loose or binding components. Inspect the offside front wheel alignment for lateral drift or uneven tyre wear, which could confirm the suspension linkage issue. Additionally, verify that the brake discs, especially the offside rear discs, remain securely mounted and free from warping or excessive glazing, as the repeated advisories suggest ongoing wear that could lead to reduced braking performance if not addressed. Beyond the mechanical concerns, the vehicle’s low annual mileage profile necessitates a thorough examination of standing-related issues. Check the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur from prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations, even at low mileage. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion or binding calipers, particularly on the near and offside front sides, as standing vehicles can cause moisture-induced rusting. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, ensuring it holds a charge and has no signs of corrosion or physical damage, as prolonged inactivity can lead to battery failure. Fluid levels should be checked—brake, coolant, and transmission fluids should be fresh, with no signs of contamination or degradation, as standing fluids can become sludge-like over time. Finally, review the service history for any missed scheduled maintenance, such as timing belt replacement or fluid top-ups, which are critical for a 11-year-old vehicle, even with low mileage. If the engine MIL persists, a comprehensive diagnostic test is essential before proceeding with purchase, as the underlying issue could be costly to resolve.