2019 Renault Kadjar 1.3L Petrol · HT19 ONP

The most recent MOT test on the 2019 Renault Kadjar, conducted on 2026-03-25, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, suggesting a stable maintenance trend over the past year. However, the vehicle’s history reveals a concerning pattern of recurring issues, particularly with wheel distortion and brake wear, which have appeared in multiple MOTs over the last three years. The failure in 2025-03-25 highlighted a major defect—nearside rear road wheel distortion—indicating a structural problem that required immediate attention, while the advisory from 2024-03-19 about thin rear brake pads on both sides points to ongoing wear beyond safe limits. The front wheel distortion noted in 2023-03-25 further underscores a persistent issue with wheel alignment or rim integrity, which could escalate if left unaddressed. These recurring defects suggest either substandard repair work, underlying manufacturing defects, or excessive stress on components, warranting careful scrutiny during inspection. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 58,723 miles for a 2019 model represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,389 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the mileage data alone do not fully explain the mechanical wear observed in the MOT history. A closer look at usage patterns would be beneficial—were there periods of prolonged idling, heavy load carriage, or aggressive driving that could accelerate component wear? The rear wheel distortion failure and thin brake pads may hint at either high-speed driving or frequent stops, both of which can stress suspension and braking systems. Additionally, if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, standing corrosion on brake discs, caliper binding, or fluid degradation in the cooling or hydraulic systems could have contributed to the observed issues. Given the recurring wheel distortion and brake wear advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection of the wheels, brakes, and suspension. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunks from the rear suspension, which may indicate worn suspension bushes or coil spring failure contributing to wheel distortion. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could signal misalignment or camber issues linked to the distorted wheels. Inspect the brake system for signs of binding calipers, excessive brake dust accumulation, or a spongy or pulsating brake pedal, all of which may indicate thin pad wear or warped discs. The rear brake pads, in particular, should be replaced if they are below the minimum safe thickness, as further wear could lead to brake failure. Additionally, visually inspect the rear wheel rims for cracks or damage that could exacerbate distortion or compromise structural integrity. Beyond the mechanical issues, the buyer should also address the broader roadworthiness and longevity of the vehicle. Given the Kadjar’s age and the potential for standing corrosion—especially if the vehicle has been left in damp or salty conditions—examine the undercarriage for rust, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and suspension mounts. Check the tyre tread depth for uniformity and signs of sidewall perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileage over time. The 12V battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as older vehicles may struggle with cold starts or electrical accessories. Finally, since the last MOT was over a year ago, consider verifying the service history for fluid changes, particularly the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the vehicle has not been serviced recently, a professional inspection should confirm that all time-based maintenance tasks have been completed, such as the replacement of the timing belt or water pump if applicable, to avoid catastrophic failures.