2018 Renault ZOE Electricity · HN68 VTA

Accelerated front-end suspension component degradation and chronic inner-edge tyre wear represent the dominant mechanical profile of this 2018 Renault Zoe. Across its testing record, the vehicle displays a recurring pattern of front tracking misalignments and front suspension wear, culminating in a severe test failure in December 2023 for dangerous inner tread depth on both front tyres and an excessively worn nearside front suspension arm ball joint. Although the vehicle secured a pass on 18 November 2025, the underlying front-end alignment and wear issues remain active, as evidenced by a fresh advisory on the offside front tyre for uneven inner edge wear, following a December 2024 advisory for slight play in an anti-roll bar linkage ball joint. Accumulating 83,127 miles over approximately eight years equates to an average annual rate of roughly 10,400 miles, reflecting consistent real-world usage for a compact electric vehicle. This steady accumulation without extended periods of inactivity means key mechanical components have experienced continuous operational stress. For a battery-electric vehicle carrying substantial battery mass over its chassis, this mileage profile directly correlates with accelerated wear on front steering, suspension bushes, and damping components, making regular chassis maintenance and alignment critical to preventing rapid tyre destruction. Prospective buyers must prioritize a rigorous dynamic evaluation of the front chassis and steering system. On a test drive, listen carefully for sharp metallic knocking or clunking sounds when traversing speed humps or uneven road surfaces, which indicates worn anti-roll bar drop links or play in lower control arm ball joints. Check for any vagueness at the steering wheel, steering pull to one side on flat roads, or vibration through the wheel, as these symptoms point directly to severe wheel alignment errors or distorted suspension geometry that cause the inner tyre shoulders to scrub out prematurely. A thorough physical inspection of all four wheels is essential before purchase. Inspect the inner shoulders of both front tyres by turning the steering to full lock to check for severe hidden wear down to the cord, as this vehicle has historically suffered from extreme inner edge scrub. Verify that the nearside lower suspension arm and anti-roll bar linkages have been properly replaced with quality components, and confirm that the windscreen damage noted in earlier inspections does not intrude into the swept driver view or show signs of spreading cracks.