2022 Renault Kadjar Equilibre TCE 1.3L Petrol · FP22 CKK

The most recent DVSA examination on 24 April 2026 produced an initial failure before the vehicle was presented for retest and subsequently passed on the same date. The major defect recorded at failure concerned an offside front windscreen wiper that was not clearing the windscreen effectively, indicating either a worn blade element, a deteriorated rubber insert, or a wiper arm tension issue. The only advisory noted on both the failure and pass entries relates to the nearside rear tyre showing slight damage, cracking, or perishing. Given the very short MOT history available, with a clean pass in May 2025 and now this minor advisory alongside a straightforward wiper blade issue, the maintenance trend appears broadly stable rather than worsening. There is no recurrence of underlying mechanical defects, brake or suspension advisories, or corrosion findings, which is reassuring for a vehicle of this age. The recorded mileage of 23,078 miles over an approximate four-year period equates to around 5,770 miles annually, which is considerably below average usage for a family SUV of this type. Such low annual mileage typically implies either light private use, predominantly short urban journeys, or extended periods of standing between uses. Mechanically, low mileage is not necessarily synonymous with a healthier vehicle, as cars used predominantly for short trips rarely reach full operating temperature, leading to increased wear on components such as the diesel particulate filter, although this particular model is petrol-powered. More relevant here is the likelihood of standing-related deterioration affecting brake discs, brake calipers, and the 12V battery, while rubber components age regardless of mileage accumulation. Given the advisory regarding nearside rear tyre cracking or perishing, this should be prioritised during a pre-purchase inspection. Tyre sidewall perishing is a calendar-driven degradation rather than purely a tread-wear phenomenon, and on a 2022 vehicle with low mileage it is plausible that the original specification tyres remain fitted. Perished rubber compromises structural integrity and grip, particularly in wet conditions, and any visible cracking on the sidewall or between the tread blocks warrants immediate replacement regardless of remaining tread depth. It would also be prudent to inspect the remaining three tyres for similar age-related deterioration, confirm matching speed and load ratings, and verify that all four tyres display consistent manufacturing date codes within the DOT stampings on the sidewalls. Beyond the advisory, a thorough inspection should focus on the consequences of low annual mileage. Brake discs and calipers can corrode or bind when a vehicle is left standing, so on a test drive listen for any scraping, grinding, or juddering on initial application and confirm the vehicle pulls away cleanly without uneven braking. Check for binding by verifying the wheels rotate freely when jacked and that the caliper sliders move without resistance. Inspect the 12V battery for signs of low state of charge or acid stratification, as short journeys are detrimental to battery longevity, and verify its manufacturing date if visible. Examine the engine oil and coolant levels and condition, confirm the service book contains stamps consistent with time-based intervals rather than purely mileage-based ones, and look for any fluid leaks beneath the vehicle. Finally, inspect the exhaust system for surface corrosion, ensure the timing chain on this TCE petrol unit is operating quietly on cold start, and verify the operation of all electrical systems including the wipers, which should have been rectified following the recent MOT failure.