2018 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · FA54 JAY

The Volkswagen Tiguan in question demonstrates a stable roadworthiness trend over the past three MOT cycles, with the most recent test on 2025-10-09 at 120,453 miles passing without any defects. This consistency suggests the vehicle has been maintained at a level sufficient to meet current MOT standards, though the absence of advisories or defects does not guarantee hidden issues. The last failure in October 2023 was an anomaly—likely a procedural oversight rather than a recurring mechanical flaw—given the immediate subsequent pass at 91,662 miles. No structural or safety-critical components appear to have been repeatedly compromised, but the high mileage demands thorough scrutiny of wear items. The recorded mileage of 120,453 miles over eight years equates to approximately 15,057 miles annually, which is above the average for a vehicle of this age. The gap between tests is consistent at around 12,000 miles, with no extended periods of inactivity or sudden spikes in usage. The 2023 failure at 91,661 miles—just one mile before passing—implies either a minor administrative error or a temporary oversight in pre-test preparation, rather than a pattern of neglect. While this mileage suggests higher-than-average usage, the lack of recurring MOT failures indicates the vehicle has been kept in a state of functional reliability. A prospective buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear components, particularly the suspension system given the mileage. Check for worn or leaking suspension bushes, degraded coil springs, and excessive play in steering or alignment. The braking system, though never flagged in MOTs, warrants examination for uneven pad wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on discs, especially if the vehicle has seen heavy use. Corrosion should be assessed at wheel arches, sills, and underbody, as prolonged exposure to road salts or poor maintenance could compromise structural integrity. Tyre condition, despite no MOT failures, should be verified for remaining tread depth and uniformity, as failing twice on tread suggests basic upkeep may have been inconsistent. Finally, inspect the exhaust system for leaks or rust-through, particularly around joints and catalytic converter mounts.