2016 Renault Megane 1.5L Diesel · YE16 ABN

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 22 August 2026, although this followed a failure recorded only one day prior. Between 2023 and 2025, the vehicle maintained a very clean record with no defects or advisories, suggesting a period of stable maintenance. However, the most recent failure indicates a sudden decline in the condition of the front suspension and steering assembly. While the identified faults were rectified quickly to achieve a pass, the emergence of multiple major defects suggests the vehicle is now entering a phase where age-related wear on chassis components is becoming more prevalent. With a recorded mileage of 106,503 miles over approximately ten years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 10,650 miles per year. This is considered typical usage for a hatchback of this era and suggests a consistent history of use rather than prolonged periods of standing. At this mileage threshold, the buyer should anticipate increased wear on high-friction consumables and rubber-based components. The drivetrain has likely seen standard duty, but the cumulative mileage puts significant pressure on suspension bushings and engine mounts, which aligns with the recent MOT failures. The recent failure regarding serious fluid leaks from both front shock absorbers and an excessively worn offside front anti-roll bar ball joint is mechanically significant. These components are critical for vehicle stability, braking efficiency, and tyre contact. During a test drive, the buyer should listen for knocking or clunking sounds when traversing uneven road surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvring. While these parts have been replaced to pass the MOT, it is essential to verify that the work was carried out to a professional standard. The buyer should check for any residual oil on the shock absorber bodies and ensure the steering feels precise without any vague movements or excessive play. Beyond the recent suspension work, a vehicle of this age and mileage requires a thorough inspection of other wear items. The buyer should examine the tyre sidewalls for perishing or cracking and check the brake discs for significant lip wear or corrosion, as well as ensuring the calipers are not binding. Given the mileage, the service history must be scrutinized to confirm that the timing belt and water pump have been replaced according to the manufacturer's interval, as failure of these components would be catastrophic. Finally, the condition of the 12V battery should be checked and the buyer should verify that all calendar-based fluids, including brake and coolant, have been refreshed recently.