2018 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · DF18 UNY

The most recent MOT inspection on 12 May 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance trend shows a concerning pattern of neglect regarding tyre legality and safety. The vehicle underwent a dangerous failure due to both front tyres falling below the legal 1.6mm tread depth limit, which was subsequently rectified to achieve the pass. However, the presence of advisories for both rear tyres being worn close to the legal limit and worn on the edges indicates that while the immediate danger was addressed, the vehicle is consistently being operated with tyres nearing the end of their serviceable life. This recurring issue suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to maintenance, where components are only replaced when they reach a critical failure point or a legal threshold. With 83,212 miles recorded over approximately eight years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 10,400 miles per year. This is considered typical for a diesel or petrol SUV of this class and suggests regular, consistent usage rather than long periods of stationary storage. From a mechanical standpoint, this mileage level implies that the vehicle is entering a phase where wear-and-tear components such as suspension bushes, shock absorbers, and brake discs will require closer scrutiny. While the mileage is not excessively high, the consistent annual usage means that consumable items like timing belts, water pumps, and various rubber seals may be approaching their scheduled replacement intervals based on age and mileage. A primary concern for a prospective buyer is the repeated history of tyre defects and the specific advisory regarding uneven wear on the edges of the rear tyres. During a test drive, you must pay close attention to the vehicle's handling and stability. Uneven tyre wear often points to underlying issues with wheel alignment, worn suspension bushes, or potentially faulty shock absorbers that are not maintaining even contact with the road surface. Listen for any rhythmic thumping or humming noises from the wheel arches, which could indicate tyre cupping or uneven tread wear. You should also inspect the tyre sidewalls for any signs of bulging or perishing, and verify if the recent tyre replacements were done in pairs or sets to ensure balanced traction and braking performance. Beyond the tyres, the historical advisory from 2022 regarding cracking or perishing on the rear tyres suggests that the vehicle may be susceptible to rubber degradation from age. Even if the tread depth is sufficient, check the sidewalls and the gaps between tread blocks for fine cracks, which indicate the rubber is becoming brittle. Given the vehicle's age and typical mileage, you should also verify the service history to ensure that fluid changes, such as engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, have been performed on a calendar basis rather than just by mileage. Inspect the brake discs for significant corrosion or grooving and check for any signs of binding calipers, which can occur if the vehicle has been driven in stop-start urban environments.