2020 Renault Captur S Edition DCI Auto 1.5L Diesel · AF20 MPV

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2020 Renault Clio DCI Auto Edition was conducted on 2026-03-09, resulting in a passing outcome with two advisories regarding the offside and nearside rear tyres, each showing tread depths of 3mm below the legal minimum of 1.6mm. This marks the vehicle’s first recorded MOT failure or advisory since 2023, indicating a stable maintenance trend up to 2024 and 2025, followed by a deviation in 2026. The presence of these advisories suggests either recent or ongoing wear beyond typical expectations for this age and mileage, potentially due to underinflation, uneven loading, or excessive cornering forces. Buyers should note that these advisories do not affect roadworthiness but indicate a need for closer monitoring of tyre wear patterns and potential alignment or suspension issues contributing to lateral imbalance. The recorded mileage of 46,358 miles for a 2020 model represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 7,726 miles per year, which aligns with moderate to light daily use over six years. This figure does not suggest excessive wear beyond what is expected for a diesel engine in this age group, particularly given the absence of high-mileage symptoms such as excessive oil consumption, transmission fluid degradation, or drivetrain noise. However, the presence of the recent tyre advisories—particularly at this mileage—could imply either a history of inconsistent maintenance or operational habits that have accelerated tyre wear. If the vehicle has been driven primarily in light traffic or with shorter daily trips, the advisories may warrant further investigation into whether the tyres were underinflated or subjected to uneven loading, which could have compromised cornering stability and contributed to premature wear. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should begin by examining the rear tyres for signs of lateral cupping, which often accompanies uneven tread wear, and check for any visible cracks or separation in the sidewall, especially around the shoulder areas. On a test drive, listen for any unusual suspension noises, particularly clunks or rattles from the rear, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or broken coil spring mounts. Inspect the rear wheels for uneven brake pad wear or glazing, which could suggest binding calipers or warped discs, and verify that the rear brake discs do not exhibit excessive corrosion or scoring. Additionally, check the rear axle for fluid leaks around the differential or driveshaft joints, as diesel engines can accumulate more sludge and varnish over time, potentially affecting lubrication integrity. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should also assess the vehicle’s standing condition for signs of corrosion, particularly around the rocker panels, wheel arches, and beneath the chassis, as prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate rust progression in older models. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, ensuring it holds a charge without excessive corrosion on terminals or swelling, as diesel engines often experience higher parasitic drain from modern electronics. Check the fluid levels in the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant, ensuring they are topped up and free from contaminants, as these fluids degrade over time even without high mileage. Finally, confirm that the service book records reflect the scheduled intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid top-ups, particularly the last diesel-specific service, which for this model should have been completed within the last 12 months. If no service records are available, the buyer should prioritise a professional inspection to confirm the engine’s internal condition, including piston ring wear and valve train health, as diesel engines can develop subtle but critical issues over time.