2015 Renault Captur 1.5L Diesel · DS15 WTJ

The Renault Captur’s most recent MOT test on 17 February 2026 confirmed roadworthiness with no defects recorded, though it followed a failure just two days prior for an exposed ply in the nearside front tyre—a critical safety issue that should have been addressed before the pass. The trend over the past two years shows intermittent but serious faults: corrosion compromising the front arm mounting in March 2025, binding rear brakes, and an inoperative reversing lamp. While the vehicle cleared its last test without issues, the recurring nature of these failures—particularly the structural corrosion and brake binding—suggests either deferred maintenance or inconsistent servicing. Buyers should treat the recent pass with caution, as the vehicle’s history indicates a pattern of neglect rather than a sudden improvement. The recorded mileage of 44,368 miles over 11 years averages around 4,000 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests—particularly the 11-month interval between the 2024 and 2025 failures—further imply periods of inactivity or limited use. Such low mileage can mask underlying issues, as components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers degrade over time regardless of distance travelled. The lack of intermediate servicing records means wear on non-MOT-tested parts, such as power steering fluid condition or differential lubrication, cannot be verified. A thorough inspection should prioritise the front chassis corrosion, which the 2025 test explicitly linked to the mounting for the front arm and radiator support. Rust in this area compromises structural integrity and could affect alignment or steering stability. The repeated binding of the offside rear brake suggests either seized calipers, warped discs, or worn brake shoes—all of which require immediate attention. Tyre condition remains a concern, as the 2026 failure for exposed ply indicates either aggressive driving or prolonged underinflation. Buyers should also check for corrosion elsewhere on the underbody, particularly around wheel arches and sills, and verify that all brake components—including pads, hoses, and fluid—are in serviceable condition. The reversing lamp failure in 2025 warrants a test of all electrical lighting and signaling systems.