2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · CX12 XDE

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance trend shows a clear trajectory of worsening suspension and drivetrain condition. While it passed the most recent test in May 2026 at 102,378 miles, the volume of technical advisories has increased significantly compared to previous years. The transition from a clean record in 2022 to a list of multiple mechanical weaknesses in the latest two tests indicates that the vehicle is entering a phase where age-related wear is requiring proactive replacement. At 102,378 miles over 14 years, the Tiguan averages approximately 7,300 miles per year, which aligns with typical UK usage for an SUV of this age. The mileage progression is consistent, with roughly 11,000 miles driven between the 2024 and 2025 tests and another 11,100 miles between 2025 and 2026. This steady usage suggests the vehicle has not sat stationary for long periods, which explains the gradual degradation of rubber components and the progressive wear seen in the record. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the front drivetrain, as both the nearside and offside outer CV boots were flagged as severely deteriorated and leaking grease in 2026. If not replaced immediately, this will lead to expensive drive shaft joint failure. The suspension also shows a clear pattern of fatigue; lower suspension arm bushes moved from being worn in 2025 to separating by 2026, and the anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover on the nearside front is now failing. These issues are likely to cause knocks and affect handling if not addressed. The braking system also requires attention as the rear pads were measured at 4mm in the latest test, nearing the replacement limit. The recurring history of uneven inner tyre wear across 2023 and 2025 suggests potential alignment issues or worn components affecting the geometry. The buyer should also ensure the front oil leak noted in 2024 remains a minor seepage and has not worsened, while specifically checking the corroded offside front coil spring identified in 2025 for any structural fractures.