2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · LC12 HZD

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 9 October 2025, but the overall maintenance trend is concerning and appears to be worsening. While the vehicle had a clean record in 2023, subsequent tests show a progression of component degradation. The transition from corrosion advisories on the rear coil springs in 2024 to a major failure for a fractured nearside rear coil spring in 2025 indicates a pattern of age-related failure that has not been proactively managed. With a recorded mileage of 55,037 miles over fourteen years, this Tiguan has averaged approximately 3,931 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the national average and suggests the vehicle has spent prolonged periods stationary. While the drivetrain may have low mechanical wear, low-usage vehicles are frequently prone to specific issues, namely the degradation of rubber components and the accumulation of surface corrosion on exposed metal parts due to a lack of regular heat cycles and movement. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the suspension and braking systems. The offside front suspension arm bush remains an advisory, which may manifest as a clunking sound during low-speed manoeuvres or a slight instability under braking. Given the previous history of pitted and scored front brake discs, you should check for brake shudder through the pedal or a grinding noise during deceleration, as discs on low-mileage cars often suffer from corrosion-induced pitting. Ensure the recently replaced coil spring has been fitted correctly and that the remaining suspension components are free from excessive play. The most pressing concern is the condition of the tyres, with recurring advisories for cracking and perishing across both the front and rear axles. This is a direct result of the vehicle's low usage and indicates that the rubber has dried out and lost its structural integrity, regardless of the remaining tread depth. A physical inspection of the sidewalls for fine cracks is essential. Additionally, you must verify the service history to ensure oil and other fluids have been changed based on time intervals rather than mileage, and check the 12V battery health, as infrequent use often leads to premature battery failure and potential caliper binding.