2013 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · FD13 KXV

The Tiguan presented for its most recent MOT on 8 December 2025 passed, although a prior refusal on the same date linked to the same advisory items is also recorded. The current pass carries five advisories: an engine oil leak not considered excessive, a fluid leak from the rear differential not considered excessive, damage to the offside front fog light lens, and both rear tyres noted as worn close to the legal limit on the inner edge. Stepping back across the recorded test history, the vehicle has passed three consecutive annual tests since 2023, with the only outright failure occurring in mid-2022 when the nearside and offside front inner brake discs were deemed significantly and obviously worn. The maintenance trend overall appears stable rather than worsening, but the recurrence of oil leaks from both the engine and rear differential over four consecutive tests indicates persistent seepage that warrants monitoring, as does the reappearance of inner-edge tyre wear, which previously affected the front axle in 2020 and now the rear. The recorded mileage of 126,345 miles over approximately 13 years equates to an annual average of around 9,719 miles, which is broadly typical for the vehicle's age and sector. The MOT history shows a steady, consistent accumulation of mileage with no extended gaps suggesting prolonged standing, which is mechanically favourable as it avoids the issues associated with calendar-based degradation of seals, brakes and tyres. The early-2022 failure on the front brake discs, however, at a time when the vehicle would have been around nine years old with likely mid-range mileage, is consistent with the wear pattern expected on a Tiguan of this age and use, particularly given the braking demands placed on the front axle. The repeat advisory for prop shaft flexible coupling deterioration in late 2024 is also notable, as this component is subject to perishing of the rubber element over time and can transmit driveline vibrations if neglected. For a prospective buyer, the recurring advisories for engine oil leakage and rear differential fluid leakage should be investigated beyond the MOT categorisation of not excessive, as both can progress and may indicate failing seals, gaskets or breather system issues that become more costly if left unattended. On a test drive, listen for any diff whine or humming that changes with throttle load, particularly on overrun, and check for fresh oil residue on the underside of the engine and around the propshaft coupling, which is accessible from beneath the vehicle. Inspect the rear tyres closely for uneven inner-edge wear, which can point to suspension geometry issues such as worn rear trailing arm bushes, sagging coil springs, or tracking misalignment, all common on higher-mileage Tiguans. The advisories on the front brake discs in 2020 suggest the discs have been surface-worn for some time; on test, check for brake shudder through the steering wheel under firm application and listen for any grinding or pulsation that might indicate lipped or warped discs now requiring replacement. Beyond the recorded advisories, a vehicle of this age and mileage should be subject to a thorough physical inspection irrespective of its MOT outcome. Check the timing chain area on the 2.0 TSI petrol engine for any signs of previous work or tensioner noise on cold start, and verify whether the cam chain follower and tensioner have been replaced, as these are recognised wear items on this engine family. Examine all suspension bushes, particularly the front lower wishbone and anti-roll bar drop links, for cracking or perished rubber, and look for oil seepage from the shock absorber bodies. The 12V battery is likely due for replacement given the vehicle's age, and the coolant, brake fluid and DSG or manual gearbox oil should be verified as recently serviced by documentation, as these fluids degrade on a time basis rather than mileage alone. Finally, inspect the exhaust system for corrosion at the joints and mounting rubbers, examine the underside for any structural corrosion around the rear axle mounting points and sills, and confirm that the offside fog light lens damage has not allowed moisture ingress into the housing, which can lead to electrical faults and bulb failure.