2013 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · GJ13 FNT

Recurring suspension component wear is the primary mechanical theme for this vehicle, specifically regarding the front lower suspension arm bushes. While the most recent test on 16 July 2026 resulted in a pass, it carried advisories for both the nearside and offside front lower suspension arm rear bushes being worn. This issue has appeared intermittently in the MOT record since 2021, indicating a persistent pattern of degradation in these specific rubber components. Although there were two years of clean results in 2024 and 2025, the re-emergence of these advisories suggests the wear is progressing rather than being resolved. The vehicle has covered 78,315 miles over its thirteen-year lifespan, averaging approximately 6,024 miles per year. This represents a relatively low annual mileage compared to typical UK averages for a vehicle of this age. Mechanically, this level of usage suggests that while the drivetrain and engine components may have experienced less intensive high-speed or long-distance wear, the vehicle is more susceptible to the effects of age-related degradation in rubber and polymer components, such as the suspension bushes and tyre sidewalls noted in previous tests. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the front end handling during a test drive to assess the current state of the flagged suspension bushes. Listen for dull knocks or clunks when driving over uneven road surfaces or speed bumps, and feel for any wandering or imprecise steering response, particularly when transitioning between straight lines and corners. Any noticeable pulling to one side or a shudder through the steering wheel under braking could also indicate that the wear in the lower suspension arms has progressed beyond the current advisory status. The history also shows a previous dangerous failure in June 2022 due to insufficient tyre tread depth on both rear tyres, alongside advisories for cracking or perishing sidewalls in 2021. While the 2026 record does not flag tyre tread or condition, the recurring nature of the suspension advisories means the vehicle's geometry and alignment should be verified. Ensure that the tyres currently fitted show even wear across the tread surface, as uneven wear patterns can be a secondary symptom of the worn suspension bushes identified in the latest inspection.