2019 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · SC60 SDC

The most recent MOT, carried out on 24 August 2026, resulted in a dangerous failure for the front tyres, which were recorded as having ply or cord exposure, and an advisory that the rear tyres show early signs of cracking or perishing. Although the overall test was marked as passed, the presence of a dangerous defect overrides the pass status and means the vehicle is not legally road‑worthy until the front tyres are replaced. Compared with the preceding three years – where the 2023 test recorded major rear‑tyre cuts and brake‑disc advisories but the 2024 and 2025 tests were clean – the trend is clearly moving towards a deterioration in tyre condition, suggesting that the vehicle’s tyre maintenance has not kept pace with its age. At 56 625 miles on the clock, the Tiguan averages just over 8 000 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage pattern for a seven‑year‑old family SUV. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage that would accelerate wear on the drivetrain, but the relatively modest annual distance combined with the tyre damage hints that the vehicle may have spent significant time stationary, allowing tyre rubber to age and perish even without extensive road wear. Prospective buyers should give the tyre set a thorough visual and tactile inspection. Verify the DOT code on each tyre to confirm its age – any tyre older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread depth, as rubber degradation can lead to ply exposure and cracking. On a test drive, listen for thudding or a loss of grip when cornering, which may indicate sidewall weakness, and feel for any vibration that could be caused by uneven wear or a developing separation of the tyre carcass. The front tyres must be replaced immediately; the rear tyres should be examined for tread depth, sidewall integrity and any signs of dry rot, and replaced if the sidewalls are soft, cracked or the tread is below the legal 1.6 mm limit. The brake disc advisories from 2023 suggest that the front and rear discs may be approaching the end of their service life – inspect them for scoring, glazing or excessive run‑out, and be prepared for a possible disc replacement or resurfacing within the next few thousand miles. Beyond the tyres and brakes, the vehicle’s age warrants a comprehensive check of time‑sensitive components. Confirm that the 12‑volt battery has been tested and is holding charge, as batteries over five years often suffer from sulfation, especially if the car has been idle for long periods. Examine the suspension for worn bushes, cracked coil springs or leaking shock absorbers, which can manifest as clunks or a hollow feel when traversing bumps. Verify that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been refreshed in accordance with the service schedule, and look for any signs of leaks around the engine bay, under the chassis and at the rear subframe. Finally, inspect the under‑carriage for corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches and rear axle, and ensure the exhaust system is free of cracks or excessive rust, as these can affect both emissions compliance and overall structural integrity. Addressing these items will give a clear picture of the Tiguan’s current roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it up to a reliable, safe standard.