2015 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · SC15 UCD

The most recent MOT, carried out on 25 June 2026, was passed but it carried several advisories – the near‑side and off‑side front tyres are worn close to the legal limit, and both rear suspension arms show corrosion although not yet structurally compromised. Over the past three years the vehicle has moved from two outright failures (a fractured off‑side front coil spring and a faulty engine MIL indicator in July 2025, and a non‑functioning side‑repeater horn in July 2023) to a series of passes with only advisory items. This indicates that the major faults have been addressed, but the recurring corrosion of the rear suspension arms and the progressive tyre wear suggest a maintenance trend that is stabilising yet still requires attention to prevent future failures. At 73,210 miles recorded for a 2015 model, the average annual mileage works out to roughly 6,650 miles per year, which is within the normal UK usage envelope. There is no evidence of a sudden mileage surge that would accelerate wear on high‑stress components such as the clutch, gearbox or engine bearings. However, the relatively low annual mileage combined with the age of the vehicle means that many parts have been subject to calendar ageing rather than pure wear, making time‑related degradation – especially rubber, seals and corrosion – a more relevant concern than mileage‑driven wear. When you inspect the car, give particular focus to the front tyres; the tread depth is already at the legal minimum and the edges are showing wear, so you should expect a tyre replacement within the next few thousand miles and look for any sidewall cracking that could indicate a hidden puncture. Examine the rear suspension arms for any progression of rust, especially around the mounting points, and feel for any clunk or looseness when applying the brakes or driving over uneven surfaces – excessive movement would point to worn bushings or a need for arm replacement. Verify that the off‑side front coil spring has been fitted correctly after the fracture, and listen for any squeaks or rattles that could betray a loose spring or mounting. Confirm that the engine’s malfunction‑indicator lamp now illuminates correctly and that the side‑repeater horn operates, as both were recorded as failed in earlier tests. Given the vehicle’s age, also check the condition of the 12 V battery, the state of the brake discs for surface rust or glazing, and whether the brake pads still have adequate thickness. Look for signs of fluid degradation – discoloured or milky coolant, oil leaks around the valve cover or oil pan, and cracked or hardened brake fluid – and ensure the service history shows timely changes (typically every 24 months for coolant and every 30 000 miles for brake fluid). Finally, inspect the under‑carriage for any rust accumulation that could affect structural integrity, especially around the rear suspension mounting points, and verify that the tyre sidewalls are free from perishing, as age‑related cracking can appear even on low‑mileage tyres. Addressing these items before purchase will give you a clearer picture of any imminent maintenance costs and help ensure the Tiguan remains road‑worthy for the years ahead.