2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · FW12 AAK

A pattern of progressive wear on the front suspension linkage and rear brake system, punctuated by a serious prop‑shaft bearing defect in 2024, defines this Tiguan’s MOT history; the most recent test in July 2026 cleared it without defects, but earlier failures and repeated advisories indicate that key wear items have been recurring rather than isolated. At 116,488 mi spread over fourteen years the vehicle averages just over 8 000 mi per annum, a mileage rate that sits comfortably within normal usage for a family SUV. The MOTs have been recorded roughly annually with no prolonged gaps, suggesting the car has been driven consistently rather than stored for extended periods, which generally limits the risk of age‑related deterioration but does mean that consumables have been subjected to steady mileage wear. Prospective buyers should give the front anti‑roll bar linkage and the front suspension arm pins or bushes particular attention. On a road test listen for any clunk or knock when traversing bumps, feel for looseness in the steering wheel, and check that the wheels remain steady under cornering. The tyre advisories across several years mean the current tread depth should be verified on all four wheels; look for uneven wear patterns that could betray mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. The rear brake pads were flagged as dangerously thin in 2024 and the front pads were noted as wearing thin in 2023, so the brake pedal should feel firm without excessive travel or pulsation, and a visual inspection of pad thickness is advisable. The prop‑shaft bearing wear recorded as a major failure in 2024 may manifest as a whining or grinding noise that intensifies under acceleration or load; a test drive at varying speeds and loads will help reveal any such symptom. The oil‑leak advisory from 2021 and the surface corrosion on the rear discs noted in 2022 merit a close visual check under the engine bay and around the rear brake discs for any fresh oil stains or rust that could affect cooling or braking performance. Finally, confirm that the rear fog lamp operates and that any under‑car covers are removable so a full inspection of the exhaust, suspension mounts and chassis can be carried out before purchase.