2008 Renault Scenic 1.9L Diesel · DK08 ADZ

A pattern of deteriorating suspension and steering components underpins the vehicle’s recent MOT performance, highlighted by a dangerous rear‑tyre bulge and a fractured off‑side rear coil spring recorded in the latest 2025 test, alongside excessive play in both front inner steering‑linkage ball joints. Earlier failures and advisories reinforce this trend – repeated warnings about near‑side rear tyre wear, off‑side front lower suspension‑arm ball‑joint wear and steering‑rack inner joint play, plus a defective rear‑exhaust mounting – indicating that the chassis and wheel‑end areas have been a recurring source of non‑compliance. At 91,482 mi spread over 18 years the vehicle averages just over 5,000 mi per annum, a mileage level that is low for its age. Such modest annual use can be compatible with a well‑preserved power‑train, yet it also suggests periods of inactivity during which rubber components, notably tyres, may have aged and become prone to structural failure, as evidenced by the current tyre bulge. Low mileage does not mitigate the wear that age alone imposes on suspension bushings, ball joints and coil springs, which are now showing clear signs of fatigue across multiple MOTs. Prospective buyers should treat the rear‑tyre bulge as an immediate safety issue and replace the tyre before any road use. The fractured rear coil spring will require replacement and a thorough inspection of the rear suspension for any collateral damage to mounts or dampers. Front steering should be examined for excessive play in the rack inner joints and the ball joints that were flagged as having excessive movement; symptoms to listen for include a loose or wandering feel when cornering, clunking noises over bumps and uneven tyre wear. The off‑side front lower suspension‑arm ball joint, previously recorded as excessively worn, should be inspected for play and replaced if any movement is detected, as it can cause steering pull and uneven tyre loading. Finally, the defective rear‑exhaust mounting noted in 2023 and 2024 should be checked for looseness or cracks that could lead to rattles or exhaust leaks, especially under acceleration. All external lights – horn, position lamps and off‑side front headlamp – must be restored to full operation, and a complete visual survey of the chassis for corrosion, especially around suspension mounting points, is advisable. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection that includes a road‑test for steering response, suspension compliance and exhaust integrity will be essential to confirm that the vehicle can be returned to a road‑worthy state.