2017 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · PL17 RFF

The most recent MOT test for the 2017 Volkswagen Tiguan was conducted on 2025-09-02 and resulted in a pass, though it included an advisory regarding the offside front tyre approaching the legal wear limit and exhibiting edge wear. This follows a pattern of consistent MOT results over the past three years, with no outright failures beyond the 2021 test, which also recorded multiple advisories on brake discs and pads. The advisories on brake components—particularly the repeated warnings of worn, pitted, or scored discs—suggest a gradual but persistent wear progression, likely influenced by the vehicle’s usage profile. While the 2021 failure was the only outright rejection, the cumulative advisories indicate a need for closer attention to brake system integrity, especially given the high recorded mileage and the potential for uneven braking forces contributing to disc wear. The 121,903-mile mark is unusually high for a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 13,545 miles annually—a rate that typically reflects intensive use rather than light or intermittent driving. Such mileage accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, as well as potential stress on drivetrain elements such as the transmission and exhaust system. The absence of significant service intervals or maintenance logs in the MOT history may imply either a lack of record-keeping or a history of high-mileage operation without regular servicing. This could elevate risks of premature failure in critical systems, including the brake discs, which have shown consistent signs of wear across multiple tests, and the tyres, which have approached legal limits in several instances. The rapid accumulation of miles without apparent long periods of inactivity may also contribute to issues like fluid degradation or standing corrosion in components that are not regularly used. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the braking system and tyres, given the recurring advisories. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a grinding or squeaking noise when applying brakes, or signs of pulsation in the pedal, which could indicate warped or uneven brake discs. Inspect the brake discs for deep grooves, scoring, or significant thinning, and check the brake pads for excessive wear or glazing. The Tiguan’s front tyres, particularly the offside and nearside, show edge wear and are approaching the legal limit, so verify tread depth and look for signs of uneven wear patterns that could suggest misalignment or suspension issues. If the tyres are worn to the legal minimum, consider replacing them promptly to avoid hydroplaning risks and to maintain safe grip, especially given the vehicle’s high mileage. Beyond the brakes and tyres, focus on the suspension and undercarriage for signs of wear or damage. Check for excessive play in the steering wheel, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or ball joints, and listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may reveal issues with coil springs, struts, or lower control arms. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or excessive noise, as high mileage can lead to corrosion or damage to catalytic converters and mufflers. The vehicle’s 12V battery should be tested for strength, particularly if the Tiguan has been driven infrequently, as standing corrosion can weaken terminals or the battery itself. Additionally, since the vehicle is over nine years old, examine the tyre sidewalls for signs of cracking or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity. If the vehicle has been in use with regular servicing, verify that service book stamps align with the MOT history, especially for fluid changes such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, which degrade over time and should be replaced at specified intervals. Finally, consider a professional inspection of the drivetrain, including the differential and transmission, to ensure there are no signs of wear or damage from the high mileage.