2009 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · PE09 XOO

The 2009 Volkswagen Tiguan holds a valid MOT certificate issued on 31 October 2025 at 148,784 miles, but the maintenance trend is not reassuring. That pass came just three days after a failure on 28 October 2025 at 148,628 miles, where the tester flagged multiple deteriorated dust covers on front suspension and anti-roll bar ball joints, along with a damaged rear reflector and a minor exhaust leak. Several of those defects, including the exhaust leak and an oil-misted offside front shock absorber, carried over into the subsequent pass. The car is currently legal to drive, yet the pattern suggests a reactive rather than preventative approach to upkeep, with known issues being patched just enough to clear the test rather than properly resolved. Mileage accumulation is consistent at roughly 8,750 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. The record shows a steady climb from 124,831 miles in October 2022 to 148,784 miles by late 2025, with no alarming gaps or sudden spikes. The annual test intervals are regular, and the mileage progression supports consistent daily use rather than long periods of dormancy or aggressive high-mileage runs. There is nothing in the odometer history to suggest tampering or irregular usage. A buyer should pay close attention to the front suspension and steering components. The October 2025 failure flagged deteriorated or missing dust covers on the nearside and offside front suspension arm ball joints, anti-roll bar linkages, and the offside track rod end. These boots protect critical joints from dirt and water ingress, and once compromised, premature wear of the joints themselves is highly likely. The offside front shock absorber was also noted as having light oil misting in both the 2025 tests, an early indicator of seal wear that can progress to full failure. Have a technician inspect all front suspension bushes, ball joints, and track rod ends for play, and budget for shock absorber replacement if ride quality or damping appears poor. The minor exhaust leak noted in both October 2025 tests warrants investigation, as small leaks can worsen and affect emissions compliance or cabin fume ingress. The rear reflector defect, while minor, should be replaced to maintain visibility. Brake pads were flagged as wearing thin in October 2024 at 142,390 miles, so by now, at nearly 149,000 miles, pads and discs are likely due for renewal unless receipts confirm recent replacement. A thorough underbody inspection for corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points and the exhaust system, is advisable given the age and the general wear pattern.