2023 Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line TSI Phev S-A 1.4L Hybrid electric (clean) · VA23 KVK

The Volkswagen Tiguan R-Line TSI PHEV presented a PASS outcome at its most recent DVSA MOT test conducted on 6 August 2026, with a single advisory issued in respect of the offside rear tyre, which was noted as worn close to the legal limit and worn on its edge. Given that this is only the second MOT recorded for the vehicle and that the only recorded defect is a relatively minor advisory rather than a failure, the maintenance trend should be regarded as broadly stable, though the tyre advisory does indicate that routine wear-related consumable replacement has begun to feature. A PASS with advisory is the most common outcome for a vehicle of this age and mileage bracket and does not in itself raise structural or mechanical safety concerns, but it does confirm that tyre condition is now an item requiring active management rather than passive observation. With 46,052 miles recorded over approximately three years, this Tiguan is averaging around 15,351 miles per annum, which sits notably above the typical UK average mileage of roughly 8,000 to 10,000 miles per year. This elevated usage rate will accelerate wear on all mechanical consumables, particularly brake friction material, brake discs, tyres, and suspension components such as bushes, anti-roll bar links, and shock absorbers. PHEV models also carry additional complexity in the form of high-voltage battery systems, regenerative braking hardware, and associated thermal management, all of which benefit from consistent running rather than prolonged standing. The mileage accumulation appears steady rather than erratic, and there is no evidence of significant gaps that might suggest long periods of inactivity, which is mechanically favourable as it reduces the risk of seized brake calipers, perished rubber components, and flat-spot damage to tyres. Regarding the advisory recorded for the offside rear tyre being worn close to the legal limit and on its edge, this warrants direct physical inspection at the point of purchase. Edge wear on a single rear tyre on a PHEV can be indicative of incorrect wheel alignment, particularly rear camber or toe settings, or it may reflect aggressive cornering load transfer combined with the additional rear axle mass contributed by the hybrid battery pack. On a test drive, listen for any increased road noise from the rear, particularly on coarse surfaces, and feel for any vagueness or tramlining through the steering, which would suggest the alignment geometry is outside tolerance and may require a four-wheel laser alignment check before the replacement tyre is fitted. Uneven wear patterns that reappear quickly on new rear tyres are a clear sign the underlying alignment issue has not been resolved and would represent a recurring cost concern for the new keeper. Given the overall mileage profile, it is also prudent to verify the timing of routine servicing items that are time rather than mileage dependent, including brake fluid replacement, coolant renewal for both the internal combustion and high-voltage thermal management circuits, and the condition of the 12V auxiliary battery, which on PHEVs can degrade more rapidly due to the constant cycling demanded by the vehicle's electronic systems. Inspect the rear brake discs for any lipping or corrosion scoring, as PHEV regenerative braking tends to place more burden on the rear axle during initial retardation while leaving the discs more exposed to surface oxidation during low-speed parking manoeuvres. Check the sidewalls of all four tyres for any signs of age-related perishing or cracking, particularly if the vehicle has been stored outdoors, and confirm the service book contains appropriate stamps or digital records at the correct intervals. Finally, verify that the high-voltage battery state of health report is available from a Volkswagen franchised dealer or specialist, as this is the single most costly component on the vehicle and its long-term condition cannot be assessed from a standard MOT record.