2019 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Petrol · WS03 DJS

The latest MOT test on the 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan recorded a passing result on 2026-06-24, with two advisories related to worn suspension arm bushings on both the nearside and offside front lower suspension arms. These advisories indicate that while the components are not yet failing to meet the minimum movement thresholds for roadworthiness, the wear is progressing and should be monitored closely. The presence of these advisories in consecutive MOTs since 2025 suggests a persistent issue rather than a one-off anomaly, and their recurrence implies that either the vehicle has been subjected to excessive stress or the suspension design is inherently prone to premature wear in this model. The absence of failures in prior MOTs—particularly the clean tests in 2024 and 2023—suggests that the maintenance history has been relatively stable, but the current advisories warrant immediate attention to prevent potential long-term damage to the suspension system, such as binding or complete failure of the arms or bushings, which could lead to severe handling issues or even a loss of control. The recorded mileage of 62,502 miles for a vehicle of this age represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,929 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a Tiguan, particularly if the vehicle has been used in mixed conditions including city driving, highway travel, and potentially some off-road or rough-road exposure. The consistent mileage accumulation over seven years indicates regular use rather than prolonged periods of inactivity, which could have otherwise exacerbated wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, and fluids. However, without additional context on specific driving conditions—such as frequent stops, aggressive acceleration, or exposure to harsh environments—the exact degree of wear cannot be precisely quantified. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the suspension system is particularly susceptible to wear, especially if the advisories on the front lower suspension arms are indeed indicative of prolonged stress, which may accelerate the deterioration of the bushings and potentially the arms themselves. Given the recorded advisories on the front suspension bushings, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s suspension components before purchase. Focus on the front lower suspension arms, particularly the bushings, for signs of excessive play when the vehicle is lifted off the ground and supported at the wheels. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps, as these can indicate loose or worn suspension elements. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension misalignment caused by the worn bushings. The thin brake pads recorded in the 2025 MOT also warrant attention; inspect the brake pads and discs for signs of glazing, warping, or excessive thickness loss. Listen for a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which could signal that the pads are nearly worn out and the discs may be damaged. If the pads are significantly worn, consider replacing them before they reach the minimum legal thickness to prevent damage to the discs and potential brake failure. For the 2019 Tiguan at 62,502 miles, the buyer should also verify the condition of the tyres beyond the noted cut on the offside front tyre, as cuts can lead to blowouts if not addressed. Check for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure and reduce its lifespan, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods without use. Inspect the front shock absorbers for signs of oil leakage or damage, as the light misting of oil noted in the 2025 MOT could indicate internal wear or failure. Test the shock absorbers by lifting the vehicle and dropping it; a properly functioning absorber will absorb the impact smoothly, while a worn one will allow the vehicle to drop unevenly or bounce excessively. The engine covers and under trays fitted in the 2022 MOT suggest basic protection, but the buyer should ensure they are securely fastened and not cracked or damaged, as loose or compromised covers can lead to oil leaks or debris ingestion. Finally, given the age of the vehicle, check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion on the terminals and ensure it holds a charge when tested, as older batteries can fail unexpectedly, leaving the vehicle stranded. Additionally, verify that the service book has been updated for the scheduled fluid servicing, particularly the oil change, which for this model should ideally have been conducted every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, to maintain engine longevity. If the service history is incomplete, arrange for a comprehensive fluid check, including coolant, brake fluid, and differential fluid, as these can degrade over time even with regular use.