2017 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · P23 HEE

The most recent MOT test on 2026-06-30 resulted in a clean pass, marking a significant improvement following the two consecutive failures in June 2026, which included two dangerous defects on the near-side front tyre—one involving exposed ply or cords and another showing a structural tear. While the previous failures were severe, the absence of any recorded defects in the last 12 months suggests a positive maintenance trend, though the vehicle’s history demonstrates recurring issues, particularly with tyre wear and suspension components. The front windscreen failure in 2025 also highlights a pattern of non-structural but critical visual defects that must be addressed promptly to maintain roadworthiness. The overall record indicates that while the vehicle has been maintained adequately in recent years, past failures point to underlying wear that has not yet escalated to critical levels. The recorded mileage of 99,470 miles for a 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan reflects a typical annual usage rate of around 11,052 miles, which is consistent with moderate to heavy daily use rather than light or infrequent operation. This level of mileage, while not excessively high for its age, places notable demands on consumables like tyres, brakes, and suspension components, which have all shown signs of wear in the MOT history. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in regular service, potentially accelerating wear on critical systems such as the anti-roll bar linkage and tyre tread integrity. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the suspension and braking systems are particularly vulnerable to cumulative stress, so any signs of excessive play in steering or uneven brake pedal travel should be investigated further. Given the vehicle’s history of tyre-related failures and advisories, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the front and rear tyres, focusing on the near-side treads where the most severe defects were recorded. Look for areas of exposed cord or ply, deep tears, or irregular wear patterns that could indicate underlying issues such as misalignment, improper inflation, or excessive camber angles. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front tyres, such as squealing or grinding, which may signal premature wear or structural compromise. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear, which could point to suspension misalignment or binding components. If the tyre treads are worn to within 1.6mm of the legal minimum, or if the vehicle has a history of tyre failures, consider replacing the tyres immediately to prevent dangerous road conditions. The suspension system, particularly the anti-roll bar linkage, has also been a recurring concern in the MOT history, with a fractured near-side anti-roll bar linkage recorded in 2023. During a test drive, pay close attention to the ride quality, looking for signs of excessive body roll, clunking noises from the suspension when driving over bumps, or any uneven suspension travel that may indicate worn suspension bushes, broken control arms, or damaged coil springs. If the anti-roll bar linkage is suspected to be faulty, the vehicle may exhibit poor handling characteristics, such as a stiff steering feel or excessive body movement during cornering. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, it is advisable to have the suspension components inspected, including the struts, bushings, and linkages, to prevent potential failures that could compromise roadworthiness or safety. The brake system should also be scrutinised, as the MOT history does not record any brake-related defects, but the buyer should check for signs of uneven brake pad wear, warping or corrosion on the discs, or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods. Inspect the brake fluid for contamination or low levels, as standing brake fluid can degrade over time, leading to reduced braking performance. Lastly, given the front windscreen failure in 2025, ensure the current windscreen is intact and free of cracks that could impair visibility, as even minor chips can spread and affect the driver’s field of view.