2016 Renault Kadjar 1.6L Diesel · AP66 BAV

The most recent DVSA examination on 20 April 2026 records both a Pass certificate and a Dangerous failure on the same date. The Dangerous items were confined to nearside and offside front tyre tread depths falling below the statutory 1.6 mm threshold, which is a fail-at-point-of-test condition rather than a structural or mechanical concern. Once the tyres were replaced to a legal depth, the vehicle passed without any advisories, indicating no latent defects were identified at that inspection. Looking back through the recorded history, the overall pattern is broadly stable but punctuated by persistent tyre wear issues. The 2025 test noted both rear tyres worn close to the legal limit and on their edges, the 2023 test flagged inner-edge wear on both front tyres alongside rear tyre cuts and slight rear brake disc corrosion, and the 2020 test recorded a nearside rear tyre cut. While the vehicle itself continues to pass, the recurrence of edge wear and premature tread depletion suggests an underlying geometry or suspension issue that warrants investigation. The recorded mileage of 137,208 miles over approximately ten years equates to an annual average of around 13,700 miles, which is notably high for a vehicle of this age. This places considerable wear on consumables and mechanical components when compared with a lower-mileage example of the same vintage. MOT history shows no prolonged standing periods, with tests occurring in 2020, 2021, 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026, consistent with regular use. The combination of high mileage and consistent annual accumulation means greater wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, brake discs and pads, clutch and drivetrain components, and the turbocharger if fitted, all of which should be treated as service items approaching or past mid-life. The repeated tyre advisories, particularly the inner-edge wear noted on both fronts in 2023, are a significant concern that demands a physical inspection. Inner-edge tyre wear on a front axle typically points to incorrect tracking, worn suspension bushes, collapsed coil springs, or worn top mounts, all of which can develop quietly on a high-mileage Kadjar. On a test drive, listen for suspension clonks or knocks over speed humps and uneven surfaces, pay attention to any pulling to one side under braking or acceleration, and check for uneven steering feel or excessive vibration through the steering wheel. The slight rear brake disc corrosion noted in 2023 is common on a frequently driven vehicle used in damp conditions and may manifest as brake shudder or uneven binding on the first application after standing. Inspect the discs for lipping, pitting, and surface rust, and verify the calipers are sliding freely without seized pistons. Beyond the recorded defects, a ten-year-old Kadjar at this mileage warrants a comprehensive age-and-use-related inspection regardless of its clean current pass status. Check the condition of all tyres for sidewall cracking and perishing, as rubber degrades with age even if tread remains adequate, and verify the manufacturing date codes on any tyres fitted. Examine the underside, including subframes, brake and fuel lines, and suspension arms, for any corrosion or fluid leaks, paying particular attention to the rear arches and exhaust mounting points. Confirm the service book or digital history shows evidence of regular oil and filter changes, coolant flushes, brake fluid renewal, and timing belt or chain inspection according to Renault's schedule. Test the 12 volt battery under load, as batteries typically require replacement every five to six years, and on starting listen for any excessive crankshaft rattle indicative of timing chain stretch common to higher-mileage Renault units. Finally, confirm the persistent windscreen cracking recorded as a minor defect in 2020 and 2025 has not progressed to the driver's direct line of sight, and check the operation of all electrical systems, including the infotainment unit and climate control, which can be a known weak point on this model.