2009 Renault Scenic 1.5L Diesel · YT58 VYW

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Renault Scenic, conducted on 2026-06-02, resulted in a passing grade, though it was accompanied by several persistent advisories that indicate ongoing wear and potential long-term concerns. The trend over the past three years shows a pattern of recurring issues rather than a clear improvement, with the vehicle failing in 2024 due to excessive wear on the offside front suspension arm ball joint and minor washer failure, then passing in 2025 and 2026 with only advisory-level defects. The consistent presence of corroded coil springs, brake pipes, and worn brake discs suggests that the vehicle has not been adequately addressed for wear-related components, particularly in the suspension and braking systems. These advisories do not currently pose an immediate threat to roadworthiness but warrant close monitoring, as they may escalate with further use or environmental exposure. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 149,215 miles over approximately 17 years represents an average annual usage of around 8,777 miles, which is relatively moderate for a car of this age. Such mileage accumulation is typical for a vehicle that has not been driven extensively or has experienced long periods of inactivity, potentially leading to issues such as standing corrosion, fluid degradation, and wear from infrequent use. The absence of significantly higher mileage figures suggests that the car may have been stored for extended periods, which can exacerbate problems like brake disc corrosion, suspension bush degradation, and tyre edge wear due to lack of dynamic movement. However, the wear pattern does not necessarily indicate rapid deterioration from high mileage alone, but rather the cumulative effects of age and intermittent operation. Given the recurring advisories on the coil springs, brake pipes, and brake discs, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension and braking systems to assess the severity of the observed wear. The corroded coil springs and brake pipes require immediate attention, as corrosion can compromise structural integrity and lead to leaks or failure if left untreated. During a test drive, listen for unusual suspension clunks or rattles, particularly when the vehicle is driven over bumps, which may indicate further wear in the suspension arms or bushes. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could suggest misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the brake discs for signs of excessive scoring or warping, which may indicate fading or uneven braking performance. The corroded brake pipes should be cleaned and inspected for any signs of internal damage, as grease buildup can restrict fluid flow and lead to brake system inefficiency. For the brake discs, which have been noted as worn and pitted but not seriously weakened, the buyer should verify that the braking action remains effective and consistent. Listen for any grinding noises during braking, which could signal disc wear nearing the legal limit, and check for brake shudder or pulsation, which may indicate warping or uneven disc thickness. The steering rack inner joint play should also be addressed promptly, as excessive play can affect steering responsiveness and contribute to misalignment. In the interim, the buyer should ensure that all fluids, including brake fluid, are at optimal levels and free from contamination, as low fluid levels or degraded fluid can exacerbate wear on brake components. Additionally, the washer system failure noted in the 2024 MOT failure should be repaired to maintain visibility and safety, especially in adverse weather conditions. Lastly, given the vehicle’s age and the observed advisories, it is prudent to schedule a comprehensive mechanical inspection by a qualified technician to assess the full extent of wear and plan for necessary servicing or repairs.