2007 Renault Scenic 2.0L Petrol · FD57 ACO

The most recent MOT on 10 April 2026 was a pass, but it was accompanied by a series of advisories covering the nearside rear tyre, rear brake pipe corrosion, steering‑rack inner joint play, brake‑disc wear and corrosion of the rear sub‑frame mounting points. Over the last two‑year span the vehicle has alternated between passes and failures, with a failure recorded in March 2026 for an excessively binding off‑side rear service brake and another in April 2025 for a dangerously low tread depth on the nearside front tyre. The recurrence of tyre wear warnings, brake‑pipe corrosion and steering‑rack play indicates that the underlying condition is not improving and that remedial work has either been deferred or only partially addressed. At 63 844 miles the car averages roughly 3 360 miles per year, which is considerably below the typical usage for a 2007 model. Such low annual mileage often points to long periods of inactivity rather than gentle, consistent driving. Prolonged standing can accelerate rubber perishing, promote corrosion on chassis and brake‑line fittings, and allow battery cells to sulphate. While the low mileage reduces the cumulative wear on engine internals and drivetrain components, the age‑related degradation of seals, hoses and rubber components is likely to be more significant than mileage‑related wear. A prospective buyer should give the tyres immediate attention. The nearside rear tyre has repeatedly been flagged as close to the legal limit and showed edge damage in 2024; the front tyre was once below the 1.6 mm minimum. Verify tread depth on all four wheels, look for sidewall cracking, perishing or uneven wear that could indicate mis‑alignment, and be prepared to replace at least the rear tyre and possibly the front set. While on the road, listen for any thumping or vibration that may betray a worn tyre or a developing flat, and check that the steering feels solid with no excessive free play or clunking when turning, as the MOT notes persistent play in the rack inner joints. The brake system also requires thorough scrutiny. Corroded brake pipes on both sides, a history of a binding rear service brake and worn or pitted discs suggest that moisture ingress and rust have compromised the hydraulic integrity. Inspect the brake hoses for surface rust, check that the pedal feels firm without a spongy or pulsating sensation, and look for any fluid leaks around the pipe fittings. The lower suspension ball joint on the nearside front has shown slight play for several years, and the rear sub‑frame mounting points exhibit corrosion; these should be examined for excessive movement, creaking noises over bumps, and any visible rust that could weaken structural integrity. Given the vehicle’s age, confirm the condition of the 12 V battery, test the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil for signs of degradation, and ensure that any service‑book stamps correspond to recent oil changes and timing‑belt or chain maintenance. Budget for tyre replacement, brake‑pipe renewal, possible steering‑rack refurbishment, suspension bushings and a fresh battery to bring the car back to a reliable, road‑worthy state.