2013 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · R88 GCR

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance trend that appears to be worsening as mileage increases. While the most recent test on 5 January 2026 at 100,540 miles resulted in a pass, it flagged a nearside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit on the inner edge. This follows a failed test in January 2025 at 91,875 miles, where multiple significant issues were identified, including excessive wear on front suspension arm bushes, a corroded rear sub-frame, and leaking shock absorbers. The recurring nature of tyre wear and suspension component degradation suggests a pattern of reactive rather than preventative maintenance. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 7,700 miles per year. The record shows steady usage from 10,902 miles in 2016 up to the current 100,540 miles. There are no significant gaps in the testing history, which provides a reliable longitudinal view of the car's condition. However, the frequency of advisories and failures regarding consumables like tyres and brakes has increased significantly in the last four years, indicating that the vehicle is entering a phase of higher component replacement requirements. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the chassis and suspension systems. The January 2025 failure highlighted corrosion on the rear sub-frame and a corroded offside front brake hose ferrule. Although the sub-frame was noted as not seriously weakened, the presence of corrosion on a 13-year-old vehicle warrants close physical examination to ensure it is not progressing. The history of leaking shock absorbers and worn suspension arm bushes suggests that the damping and handling characteristics may be compromised if these parts have not been recently replaced. The braking system also requires scrutiny. Previous tests in December 2022 and March 2020 flagged worn brake discs and thinning pads. Given the recent advisory for inner tyre wear, which often indicates alignment issues or suspension geometry faults, the buyer should check for uneven tyre wear and inspect the condition of the wheel bearings, which were noted as noisy in late 2022. Ensuring that the recent suspension and braking repairs were carried out to a high standard is essential before proceeding with a purchase.