2007 Renault Scenic 1.6L Petrol · AP57 YMW

Recurring steering rack inner joint play and persistent tyre degradation represent the primary mechanical trends for this vehicle, as evidenced by the most recent MOT pass on 28 November 2025. The steering rack advisories have appeared consistently in almost every annual test since at least 2018, indicating a long-term issue with the steering linkage that has not been resolved. Furthermore, the most recent record shows a significant accumulation of advisories regarding tyre condition, specifically noting cracking, perishing, and inner sidewall damage on multiple tyres, which mirrors the tyre-related advisories seen in the 2023 and 2024 tests. The recorded mileage of 85,242 miles over a nineteen-year period reflects an average annual usage of approximately 4,486 miles. This is a low rate of accumulation for a vehicle of this age, which correlates with the specific nature of the advisories. The repeated flags for tyre perishing and cracking, alongside the long-term steering rack play, are characteristic of a vehicle that may spend significant periods stationary or is driven infrequently, allowing rubber components to age and degrade through environmental exposure rather than through tread wear alone. A test drive should focus heavily on the steering system to assess the severity of the documented inner joint play. Listen for any knocking, clunking, or irregular clicking noises when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when navigating uneven surfaces. Any sensation of looseness, vagueness, or a lack of precision in the steering response would indicate that the play in the rack inner joints has progressed. Additionally, the driver should monitor for any pulling to one side or wandering sensations that might suggest the steering geometry is being affected by the worn components. The braking system and tyre integrity also require close inspection. While the 2024 MOT noted worn brake discs, they were not flagged as excessive, but the driver should check for any pedal judder or pulsation during braking, which could indicate disc thickness issues or warping. Given the repeated advisories for perishing and cracking tyres, particularly the noted inner sidewall damage on the nearside rear, a visual inspection of the entire tyre sidewall is essential to check for deep cracks or bulges. Any sign of structural degradation in the rubber should be treated as a priority for replacement to ensure safe handling and structural integrity.