2005 Renault Master 2.5L Diesel · GX55 AYJ

The most recent MOT carried out on 30 January 2026 recorded a pass, with only a minor windscreen damage note and a series of advisories covering an oil leak, rear anti‑roll bar bush wear, front lower suspension arm ball‑joint play and slight damage to the near‑side rear tyre. Compared with the preceding three‑year record, which featured three outright failures for lighting, washer, wiper and brake‑binding issues, the trend is cautiously improving – the vehicle now clears the test but the persistence of multiple advisories indicates that underlying wear has not been fully remedied. At 149,355 mi the van averages roughly 7,100 mi per year over its 21‑year life, a usage pattern that sits comfortably within the normal range for a work vehicle of this age. There are no obvious mileage gaps that would suggest prolonged periods of inactivity, nor is there any evidence of unusually high annual mileage that would accelerate wear beyond what is already evident from the MOT comments. The mileage therefore supports the observed wear items rather than revealing hidden over‑use. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the rear near‑side tyre, which has been flagged as slightly damaged or perishing on four separate occasions. Inspect the sidewalls for cracking, dry rot and tread wear; any loss of structural integrity warrants immediate replacement. The front lower suspension arm ball joints on both sides have been recorded with slight play since 2022; on a test drive listen for clunking when negotiating bumps or during steering inputs, and feel for any looseness in the front end. The anti‑roll bar bush on the rear is also noted as worn – excessive body roll or a knocking noise when cornering can be a symptom. The front service brake was deemed excessively binding in 2023; check for a spongy or gritty pedal, uneven brake disc wear and any pull to one side, as the caliper may need rebuilding or replacement. The oil‑leak advisory, although not classified as excessive, should be traced to its source – a leaking gasket or valve cover can lead to low oil levels and engine wear if left unchecked. Lighting and washer deficiencies (headlamp, position lamp, wiper effectiveness, washer fluid supply) are straightforward fixes but should be verified as operational before purchase. Given the vehicle’s age, additional time‑based inspections are prudent. Examine the sub‑frame areas highlighted for corrosion, especially the inner sill and jacking points, for any signs of rust penetration that could compromise structural rigidity. Verify the condition of the 12 V battery, as a 21‑year‑old unit is likely nearing the end of its service life; a load test or voltage check is advisable. Check all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and transmission oil – and consider a full service if the last documented change predates the most recent MOT. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes, brake servicing and tyre rotations, as a consistent maintenance record will help mitigate the wear patterns already evident in the MOT history.