2018 Renault Captur 0.9L Petrol · AF68 KUX

The most recent MOT, dated 27 October 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle met the statutory safety and emissions standards at that time. However, the preceding test on 25 October 2025 recorded a dangerous tyre bulge on the nearside front wheel and tyres worn close to the legal limit, both of which would have required immediate remedial action before the subsequent pass. Earlier failures in 2022 involved ineffective windscreen wipers and tyre perishing, while a 2021 advisory highlighted thin front brake pads. Overall the maintenance trend shows a pattern of tyre‑related concerns that have been addressed sufficiently to achieve a pass, but the recurrence suggests that tyre condition should be a focal point for the buyer. At 49,323 miles the Captur averages roughly 6,200 miles per year over its eight‑year life, a usage rate that is modest for a vehicle of this age. Such relatively low annual mileage often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, which can lead to age‑related degradation of rubber and metal components even when wear from distance is minimal. The modest mileage does not preclude the need for time‑based services, but it does mean that consumables such as tyres, brake discs and the battery may have aged beyond what mileage alone would suggest. Prospective owners should give the tyres a thorough visual and tactile inspection. Look for any sidewall cracking, bulges, or uneven tread wear that could indicate underlying suspension or alignment issues; verify that the tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm across the entire width and that the tyre age (DOT code) is not beyond six years, as perishing can occur even on low‑mileage tyres. During a test drive, listen for clunking or knocking from the front suspension, especially over bumps, which may reveal worn bushes or deteriorating coil springs. Check the operation of both windscreen wipers for full clearance and effective wiping, as the 2022 major fault suggests that the mechanism may have been repaired but could still be prone to wear. Examine the brake pads and discs for thickness and any pulsation when applying the brakes; the thin‑pad advisory from 2021 should have prompted replacement, so confirm that the pads now have at least 3 mm remaining and that the discs are free of deep scoring or rust. Given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive age‑related inspection is advisable. Test the 12 V battery voltage and, if possible, have it load‑tested, since batteries left idle for long periods can lose capacity. Inspect the under‑carriage for corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and ensure that any rust is surface‑level rather than structural. Verify that the service book contains regular oil, filter, coolant and brake‑fluid changes, noting that brake fluid should be replaced at least every two years regardless of mileage. Finally, confirm that all electronic aids—such as the electronic stability control and lane‑assist sensors—are functional, as these systems can develop faults that are not always evident in an MOT but affect safety and resale value.