2020 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · LP69 KBY

The most recent MOT, conducted on 6 January 2026, resulted in a failure because the front brake pads were worn down to the wear‑indicator and the rear pads were reported as thin, with both front and rear off‑side tyres noted as slightly damaged and a nail present in the near‑side rear tyre. Earlier tests in 2022 and 2023 were clean, while the 2024 test only raised a tyre‑wall advisory. The progression from a clean record to a brake‑pad failure and multiple tyre advisories indicates a deterioration in wear items and suggests that routine maintenance may have been deferred in recent months. At 56,821 mi the Tiguan averages roughly 9,500 mi per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage pattern for a six‑year‑old vehicle. The mileage does not point to any periods of excessive short‑term loading, but the relatively modest annual distance also means the car may have spent significant time stationary, a factor that can accelerate corrosion of brake components, suspension bushings and battery ageing. There are no obvious mileage spikes that would imply abuse, yet the accumulated distance is sufficient for consumables such as brake pads, tyres and suspension bushes to be approaching the latter stages of their service life. A prospective buyer should give immediate attention to the braking system. Inspect the front and rear brake pads for remaining thickness and verify whether the discs show scoring, glazing or excessive rust, as worn pads can lead to reduced stopping power and uneven pad wear. During a test drive listen for any squeal, groan or pulsation when applying the brakes, particularly on firm surfaces, which would indicate the need for pad replacement and possibly disc resurfacing or fitting of new discs. All four tyres must be examined for side‑wall damage, tread depth and the presence of the reported nail; any tyre with a compromised wall should be replaced, and the remaining tyres should be rotated and balanced to avoid uneven wear. Check that the tyre pressures are correct and that the wheel rims are free of cracks or bends that could affect alignment. Beyond the brakes and tyres, the buyer should verify the condition of the suspension bushings, ball joints and control arms, looking for any clunking noises over bumps that could signal wear exacerbated by the previously noted tyre damage. Since the vehicle has been standing for extended periods, inspect the battery for sulphation, test its cranking voltage and ensure the terminals are clean; a battery older than four years may need replacement. Confirm that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been serviced on schedule, as calendar‑based degradation can occur even with modest mileage. Finally, request the service book to confirm that major services, especially the 30 000 mi and 60 000 mi intervals, have been logged, and that any recommended timing‑belt or chain work has been carried out, to give confidence in the overall mechanical integrity of the Tiguan.