2012 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0L Diesel · WD62 CKA

The most recent MOT on 9 June 2026 was a pass, but it followed a failure recorded the previous day for a major fault in the engine management indicator lamp and a dangerous condition where both rear tyres showed exposed ply. The earlier failure was evidently remedied before the re‑test, as the vehicle cleared the examination. Over the past six years the majority of tests have been passes, with only advisory items noted, suggesting that routine maintenance has been generally adequate but that some components are now approaching the end of their service life. At 145,881 mi the Tiguan averages just over 10 000 mi per year, which is typical for a fourteen‑year‑old family SUV. The mileage does not indicate any periods of intense short‑term use that would accelerate wear, nor does it reveal long stretches of inactivity that might have caused fluid degradation or battery sulphation. Nevertheless, the cumulative distance means that wear items such as suspension bushings, brake pads and tyre tread are likely to be well into their service intervals and should be inspected closely. The advisories for the front lower suspension arm pins or bushes, recorded in 2022, point to progressive wear that could soon produce excessive movement, clunking noises on uneven surfaces and altered steering response. A prospective buyer should check for any play when the front wheels are rocked, listen for metallic knocks when braking or accelerating, and verify that the bushes are not cracked or excessively soft. The rear brake pad wear noted in 2021, together with the thin‑pad advisory, means the pads may be near the minimum thickness; the buyer should inspect the pads for remaining material, examine the discs for scoring or rust, and test the brake pedal for a firm, consistent feel. The repeated tyre wear advisories on both rear wheels indicate that the tread is close to the legal limit and that the tyres may be unevenly worn on the inner edges, a sign of possible mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. The dangerous failure for exposed tyre ply in 2026 must be confirmed as fully rectified – the buyer should verify that the rear tyres have been replaced with tyres of adequate depth, free from cuts, bulges or ageing cracks, and that the tyre age (DOT code) is within the recommended six‑year window. Given the vehicle’s age, the buyer should also carry out standard time‑based checks: confirm the condition of the 12‑volt battery, looking for signs of sulphation or a weak charge; ensure that the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been changed within the manufacturers’ intervals, as fluids deteriorate even when the car is not driven heavily. Inspect the under‑carriage for corrosion, especially around the exhaust system and suspension mounting points, and verify that the service book contains stamps for major services such as timing‑belt or chain replacement if applicable. A thorough visual examination of the body for rust, especially at wheel arches and sills, and a test drive listening for any unusual noises from the drivetrain, suspension or steering will give a clearer picture of the Tiguan’s overall roadworthiness before purchase.