2018 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · CD68 ATS

The most recent MOT test completed in February 2026 resulted in a pass, but it is critical to note that this followed a dangerous failure. The vehicle failed due to the nearside front tyre having a tread depth below the legal 1.6mm requirement, alongside an offside front tyre worn close to the limit. When evaluating the overall maintenance trend, there is a visible decline in the attention paid to consumable components. The history shows a progression from tyre advisories in 2024 to a dangerous failure in 2026, suggesting that maintenance is being reactive rather than proactive, with components being allowed to reach critical wear levels before being addressed. With a recorded mileage of 62,328 over approximately eight years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,791 miles per year. This is considered typical for a domestic vehicle and indicates moderate usage rather than high-intensity motorway driving or heavy commercial application. While the mileage is not excessive, the mechanical implications of this usage profile mean that wear on items such as suspension bushes, coil springs, and braking systems will be consistent with age. The moderate mileage suggests that the vehicle has not been heavily stressed, but the MOT history indicates that the management of wear-and-tear items has been inconsistent. A primary concern for a prospective buyer is the recurring issue with tyre wear, specifically the mention of tyres being worn on the edges. This pattern often points toward underlying issues with wheel alignment or suspension geometry. During a test drive, you should pay close attention to the steering for any pulling to one side or vibrations through the steering wheel, which could indicate faulty tie rod ends or worn control arm bushes. You should also visually inspect the current tyres for any signs of uneven tread wear or perishing, and ensure that the recent replacements have been fitted following a four-wheel alignment check to prevent a repeat of the previous failures. Additionally, given the history of neglected tyres, you should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system. Check the brake discs for any signs of uneven thickness or heavy corrosion and listen for any grinding or squealing that might indicate worn pads or binding calipers. Because the vehicle has been driven with tyres near the legal limit, it is also prudent to verify the service history to ensure that time-sensitive maintenance, such as brake fluid replacement and oil changes, has been carried out according to the manufacturer's schedule rather than solely based on mileage. Finally, check the suspension for any clunks or knocks when traversing uneven surfaces, as this will confirm the integrity of the bushes and dampers.