2005 Renault Kangoo 1.5L Diesel · CV55 FMP

Chronic recurring corrosion on the rear brake lines and persistent tyre damage define the mechanical history of this Renault Kangoo, highlighting a pattern of recurring attention needed in the braking department rather than a clean bill of health. The vehicle most recently passed an MOT test on 29 August 2023 at 111,439 miles, following a failure just five days prior due to an inoperative parking brake and a split offside front constant velocity boot. While the subsequent pass indicates these specific major faults were rectified, the recurring advisories spanning multiple years regarding corroded rear brake pipes covered in grease or other material signal that foundational corrosion issues have been monitored rather than permanently resolved. Accumulating 111,439 miles over roughly 21 years equates to an average of about 5,307 miles per year, representing a relatively low annual usage profile for a commercial-derived vehicle of this age. This lower-than-average mileage does not inherently point to superior mechanical health; rather, it requires careful scrutiny of rubber components, suspension bushes, and structural members that degrade with time regardless of distance covered. The MOT record shows continuous annual testing without extended gaps, confirming that the vehicle has remained in active service rather than sitting idle for long periods. During a physical inspection and test drive, absolute priority must be given to examining the brake pipes and flexible hoses, specifically checking the nearside rear and offside rear ferrules for structural integrity and ensuring no greasy coatings are masking active corrosion. Listen closely for knocking noises from the front suspension over rough road surfaces, which would indicate wear in the anti-roll bar linkage pins and bushes flagged in previous tests. Additionally, inspect the offside front drive shaft CV boot that was replaced following the 2023 failure to ensure the new gaiter is secure and free of grease leakage. Further scrutiny should be directed toward the parking brake mechanism to verify balanced holding power on both sides, as an inoperative handbrake was previously cited as a major failure. Check the front registration plate for the deterioration noted across multiple years, and inspect the tyres for any foreign objects, given the recurring advisory history regarding nails embedded in the treads. Verifying that all structural and braking defects from the test history have been thoroughly addressed will be essential before committing to a purchase.