2021 Renault Kadjar 1.5L Diesel · AC68 TON

The 2021 Renault Kadjar currently holds a valid MOT status, having passed its most recent test on 18 March 2026 with no defects or advisories recorded. However, the immediate prior test on 17 March 2026 resulted in a failure due to a non-functioning offside rear position lamp and stop lamp, both classified as Major defects. These are typically straightforward electrical faults, often rectified by replacing bulbs, checking connections, or addressing minor wiring issues, and do not necessarily indicate systemic neglect. Looking at the broader picture, the vehicle's MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that warrant attention, particularly in the areas of rear braking components, headlamp operation, and tyre condition. In March 2025, the vehicle failed on a dangerously worn nearside rear brake pad measuring below the 1.5mm minimum thickness, alongside a non-functioning nearside headlamp on dipped beam. Advisories at that time also noted pitted rear brake discs and water ingress in the offside rear lamp assembly. In March 2024, advisories were raised regarding tyres worn close to the legal limit on the rear and the offside front. While the most recent pass is clean, the recurrence of brake, lighting, and tyre concerns suggests these areas require ongoing vigilance rather than being treated as resolved one-off issues. With 54,915 miles recorded on a five-year-old vehicle, the Kadjar has been driven at approximately 10,983 miles per year, which sits comfortably around the typical usage profile for its age. This annual mileage is neither unusually low nor excessively high, suggesting the vehicle has been used regularly rather than left standing for prolonged periods or subjected to extreme high-mileage wear. The relatively even accumulation of miles generally supports reasonable mechanical condition of major drivetrain components, though consumable items such as brake pads, discs, tyres, and suspension components will naturally require attention proportional to this usage. Importantly, the absence of any recorded mileage gaps in the test history indicates consistent use, which helps mitigate concerns around seized brakes, perished rubber seals, and degraded fluids that often accompany low-mileage or intermittently used vehicles. For a prospective buyer, the rear braking system should be a priority area for physical inspection and negotiation, given the dangerous brake pad failure recorded in March 2025 and the pitted rear brake disc advisory. On a test drive, listen for any grinding, squealing, or scraping noises from the rear brakes, and pay attention to any brake shudder, vibration through the pedal, or pulling to one side under braking, all of which could indicate ongoing or recurring brake issues. Given that the brake disc pitting was noted as not seriously weakened at the time but has not been re-examined since, a current visual inspection of the rear discs for lipping, surface corrosion, and scoring is highly advisable. Additionally, check that the rear brake calipers are operating freely and not binding, as a seized caliper can accelerate pad and disc wear unevenly and may explain the rapid pad wear observed. The tyre advisories from 2024 also warrant a thorough check of the current tyres for even tread wear across the axle, correct pressures, and importantly for any signs of perishing or cracking on the sidewalls given the vehicle's age, even if tread depth is currently adequate. Beyond the documented defects, a vehicle of this age and mileage warrants several time-based and usage-based checks irrespective of MOT results. Inspect the underside and wheel arches for any developing corrosion, paying particular attention to suspension components, subframes, and exhaust mounting points, as road salt exposure over five winters can accelerate structural deterioration even on well-maintained vehicles. Verify the service history stamps to confirm that timing belt or chain intervals, oil and filter changes, and coolant flushes have been conducted at manufacturer-recommended intervals, as neglecting these can lead to expensive engine repairs. The 12-volt battery should be tested for cranking strength and state of charge, particularly as batteries typically require replacement every four to six years regardless of mileage. Finally, examine all exterior lamps and ensure both headlights, brake lights, and rear lamps function correctly, given the recurring lighting defects in the MOT record, and check that the headlamp alignment is correct to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic or failing a future test.