2019 Renault Captur 1.3L Petrol · CA53 AYC

The most recent MOT on 22 May 2026 shows the Captur ultimately passed, but it also recorded a failure for a major defect on the nearside front anti‑roll bar linkage – a worn ball‑joint and a damaged dust‑cover that no longer excludes dirt. The earlier tests in 2023, 2024 and 2025 were clean, so the vehicle has generally been well‑maintained, but the 2026 failure indicates a new wear point that required remedial work before the pass was granted. The trend is therefore stable overall, with a single recent issue that appears to have been addressed. At 52,185 mi the car averages just under 7,500 mi per year, which sits squarely in the normal UK usage band for a seven‑year‑old hatchback. The mileage is not excessive, suggesting the drivetrain, engine and transmission have not been subjected to high‑stress, high‑kilometre wear. However, the relatively modest annual run‑off also hints that the vehicle may have spent periods of inactivity, which can promote corrosion on suspension components, brake disc surface rust and battery electrolyte depletion if not periodically recharged. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular attention to the front suspension on the nearside. Verify that the anti‑roll bar ball‑joint has been replaced with a component that matches the original specification and that the dust‑cover now seals correctly. On a short test‑drive listen for any clunk or knock when steering over bumps or during cornering, and feel for any looseness in the steering feel that could signal lingering wear in the bushings or the linkage itself. Examine the surrounding suspension bushes, coil springs and tie‑rod ends for cracks, oil leakage or excessive play, as a compromised anti‑roll bar can accelerate wear in adjacent parts. Beyond the specific defect, conduct the usual age‑related checks for a 2019 model. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or age‑related hardening, and confirm the tread depth is within legal limits. Check the 12 V battery terminals for corrosion and test the resting voltage, especially if the car has been stationary for long periods. Look at the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven pad wear that could cause shudder under braking, and ensure the calipers move freely without binding. Finally, confirm that the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed at the recommended intervals, as time‑based degradation can occur even with modest mileage, and request any service book stamps or receipts that corroborate regular maintenance.