2011 Renault Grand Scenic 1.5L Diesel · FN61 YHW

A recurring theme of front‑suspension wear and brake service irregularities dominates this Grand Scenic’s MOT record, culminating in a major off‑side front coil‑spring fracture and dual registration‑plate lamp failures recorded in September 2026. Earlier advisories consistently flag slight play in both front ball joints and occasional brake‑disc surface scoring, while a 2021 failure highlighted excessive play in the track‑rod ends. The pattern shows a gradual accumulation of wear‑related advisories, punctuated by a serious structural failure that required remedial work before the vehicle could be re‑tested and passed later that month. At 101 845 mi the vehicle averages roughly 6 800 mi per year, a mileage rate that sits squarely within normal usage for a fifteen‑year‑old MPV. Annual MOTs have been recorded without significant gaps, indicating the car has been kept on the road and presented for testing each year. This mileage level aligns with the progressive suspension and brake wear observed in the records; components such as ball joints, coil springs and brake discs typically begin to show measurable degradation in the 80 000‑100 000 mi window, especially on a vehicle that carries the higher loads associated with a large family MPV. When inspecting the suspension, concentrate on the front ball joints, lower arm bushes and track‑rod ends for any perceptible clunk or knock when driving over bumps, as well as any wandering or pull to one side at steady speed, which would indicate excessive play beyond the slight play noted in the advisories. Verify that the off‑side front coil spring has been replaced correctly and that there is no visible cracking or uneven compression in the spring packs, as a fractured spring can compromise ride height and handling. On the braking side, feel for pedal pulsation or a spongy feel that could betray the disc‑scoring and binding noted in multiple years, and listen for any uneven squeal that might signal uneven disc wear. The off‑side rear brake pipe corrosion recorded in 2021 should be examined for rust, bulging or signs of fluid leakage, particularly around the pipe fittings and the surrounding chassis area. Tyre tread depths should be measured, as advisories from 2021‑2022 flagged both front and rear tyres worn close to the legal limit, and any edge‑wear patterns could point to mis‑alignment from the suspension wear. Finally, confirm that both registration‑plate lamps operate correctly and that the lighting wiring is intact, since the 2026 failure was classified as a major fault. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection covering these specific items will give a clear picture of the current roadworthiness and the likely cost of remedial work.