2020 Renault ZOE I Iconic ZE 50 Electric · AF20 VAM

A clean and consistent MOT record defines this Renault Zoe, with three consecutive passes on 2025-05-15, 2024-04-24, and 2023-06-16, each issued without a single advisory or defect recorded. There is no documented history of brake, suspension, exhaust, or lighting concerns, which suggests the vehicle has not yet accumulated the wear items that typically surface on a small EV once mileage builds. Because the Zoe is a battery-electric vehicle with regenerative braking, the absence of any brake-related advisories across all tests is particularly reassuring, as it points to discs and pads that have so far avoided the corrosion and binding issues that can afflict lightly-driven EVs. The overall trend is one of stable roadworthiness with no deterioration between annual tests. At 28,100 miles over six years, annual usage averages around 4,683 miles, which is low for the vehicle's age and indicative of predominantly short urban journeys rather than sustained motorway running. This pattern is mechanically beneficial in some respects, reducing wear on tyres, suspension components, and the single-speed reduction gearbox, but it also creates specific risks worth probing. Prolonged standing periods can allow brake discs to corrode, particularly on a car using regenerative deceleration, and can encourage moisture retention in areas such as the undertray and wheel arch liners. The MOT history shows no evidence of any such corrosion having developed to an advisory level, but a buyer should remain alert to surface rust on unseen components. Equally, low annual mileage raises questions about the state of charge history and the long-term health of the 52 kWh battery pack, which is the most expensive single component on the vehicle. A prospective buyer should focus their inspection on the items the MOT cannot fully evaluate. On a test drive, listen for any clonks or knocking from the front MacPherson strut suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, paying particular attention to the lower control arms and anti-roll bar drop links, which on the Zoe are known to wear earlier than the surrounding components. Apply the footbrake firmly from around 30 mph and check for any pulsation through the pedal, which would suggest disc lipping or warping, and listen for grinding or squealing that could indicate a binding caliper or seized rear calliper mechanism. The steering should remain precise without vibration or pulling to either side, and the column should not emit any clicks or grinding when turned lock to lock. Given the modest mileage, particular attention should be paid to the health of the traction battery and its thermal management system. Request a battery State of Health report from a Renault dealer or specialist diagnostic tool, as the ZE 50 pack can degrade noticeably if regularly left at high states of charge or exposed to extreme temperatures without active cooling. Inspect the charging port and cable for any damage or scorching, and confirm that both AC and DC fast charging functions correctly. Visually examine the underside of the car for any oil misting from the electric motor or reduction gearbox, corrosion on the subframe and suspension links, and the condition of the high-voltage cable routing. Tyres should be inspected for even tread wear across both axles, which would indicate correct alignment, and the sidewalls checked for any cracking consistent with age rather than mileage.