2007 Renault Scenic 1.6L Petrol · AX07 KBY

The most recent MOT, carried out on 16 July 2025, resulted in a failure. The failure was dominated by a major fault – excessive play in the near‑side front inner track‑rod (ball‑joint) – which directly affects steering precision and safety. In addition there was an advisory for a minor exhaust leak at the central clamp and a view‑obstruction advisory that was removed before testing. Over the preceding six years the pattern has moved from clean passes (2020‑2021) to a series of advisories concerning tyre perishing, rust‑ridden brake discs and recurring play in the steering rack inner joint, culminating in the current major steering fault. This trajectory indicates a worsening maintenance picture, with wear items that have been deferred now manifesting as safety‑critical defects. The recorded mileage of 60,816 mi for a 2007 model equates to roughly 3,200 mi per annum, which is well below the average utilisation for a vehicle of this age. Such low annual usage often points to long periods of inactivity or very light duty rather than high‑stress operation. While the low mileage reduces cumulative wear on engine and transmission components, age‑related degradation becomes the dominant concern – rubber compounds, metal fatigue and corrosion can progress irrespective of distance travelled. Prolonged standing can also lead to tyre sidewall perishing, battery sulphation, and the gradual stiffening of suspension bushes and bushings. A prospective buyer should give the steering system the highest priority. Verify the condition of the near‑side front inner track‑rod ball‑joint and the associated rack end play by checking for any clunk or loose feel when the wheel is rocked at the 12 o’clock position, and by feeling for excessive free play in the steering wheel at full lock. An audible knocking or a wandering steering response under braking would confirm the defect. The exhaust leak at the central clamp should be inspected for soot staining or a faint hissing sound, and the joint should be tightened or replaced to prevent fumes entering the cabin. Tyres must be examined for cracking, especially on the sidewalls, and for tread depth consistency; any perished rubber can lead to sudden failure, particularly in wet conditions. The brake discs, noted as rusty and pitted in 2023, should be measured for thickness and inspected for scoring; a shudder or pulsation when applying the brakes would indicate that resurfacing or replacement is required. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, the buyer should also assess items that deteriorate with time. Check the 12 V battery voltage and conduct a load test, as prolonged storage can cause loss of capacity. Inspect the chassis and under‑body for rust, especially around suspension mounting points and the exhaust system. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed within the recommended intervals – fluid darkening or moisture contamination is common after a decade without service. Finally, ensure the windscreen is free of cracks that could propagate, and confirm that a full service history exists, as documented maintenance will give confidence that age‑related wear has been managed appropriately.