A condenser would only be considered "bad" if it is leaking or if it has been contaminated internally by a failed compressor. Condenser fins should be clear of obstructions to permit airflow and all fans should be operational.

AC condensers don't have a shelf life. All an AC condenser is, is one giant tube that runs back and forth, with lots and lots of individual fins to disperse hot, liquid refrigerant into cooled, liquid refrigerant. The condenser is forward of the radiator, which means it's most suseptible to pinholes and gashes from rocks and other debris. 

Unless your compressor has failed, the only other options are are the condenser is partly obstructed, your fans are weak, or you've damaged it.

You didn't mention your car, and it would help greatly if you mentioned it. As cars get older and "travel" from person to person, state to state, it's much more likely to have had rocks and other debris hit the condenser just based on sheer probability.