2018 Renault Captur 1.2L Petrol · J3 URS

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but exhibits a worsening trend in mechanical degradation and deferred maintenance. While it passed the most recent March 2026 test at 39,500 miles, the record reveals several new defects that were not present in the previous year. The appearance of engine oil leaks, power steering rack play, and perished rear trailing arm bushes indicates that the vehicle is suffering from age-related component failure and seal degradation despite its relatively low mileage. At 39,500 miles over eight years, the Renault Captur has covered an average of approximately 5,000 miles per year. This low usage pattern explains the poor condition of the brake components and tyres, which show signs of perishing, pitting, and flat spotting rather than high-mile wear. The gap between the 2023 test at 22,845 miles and the 2024 test at 29,039 miles shows a jump in activity, suggesting the car may have sat for extended periods, leading to the deterioration of rubber components and corrosion of the metal surfaces. A buyer must closely inspect the steering and suspension assembly, as the history shows a persistent issue with the steering rack inner joints dating back to 2025. The recent 2026 report of dampness in the rack and perished trailing arm bushes suggests a significant repair cost may be imminent. Additionally, the buckled nearside front inner wheel rim noted in the latest test indicates a previous impact that should be checked for secondary alignment issues or further structural damage. The braking system requires immediate attention as the front discs have been flagged as pitted and scored across three consecutive years without the owner appearing to have replaced them. The corroded exhaust system noted in 2025 also warrants a physical inspection for structural rust to ensure the integrity is not compromised. Given the engine oil leaks identified in the most recent MOT, a thorough check of the engine bay is necessary to determine if these are simple gasket failures or a more serious internal issue.