2021 Renault Captur Iconic TCE Auto 1.3L Petrol · HT21 CLN

The most recent MOT, carried out on 7 May 2026, recorded a pass but also flagged two major failures – mis‑aligned front windscreen washer jets that do not deliver sufficient fluid and an off‑side front wiper that does not clear the screen effectively. The earlier 2025 MOT was also a pass with a dangerous defect recorded for a tear in the near‑side front outer tyre. Apart from these isolated issues, the intervening 2024 test was clean. The pattern shows a generally acceptable maintenance record but with a slight upward trend in minor safety‑related faults that have begun to appear in the last two years, suggesting that routine upkeep may have been uneven rather than a fundamental deterioration of the vehicle’s core systems. At 62,509 mi for a 2021 model the car averages roughly 12,500 mi per annum, which is above the typical UK usage of 8‑10 k mi per year for a vehicle of this age. The higher mileage indicates more frequent wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads, and suspension components, and it also suggests the engine and transmission have been subjected to a relatively heavy duty cycle. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage that would imply long periods of storage, so the wear is likely to be progressive rather than the result of intermittent use. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front tyre set. The dangerous tear recorded in 2025 points to a potential for sidewall failure; the current tyre tread depth, uniformity of wear and any signs of cracking or bulging should be inspected visually and confirmed with a tread depth gauge. While driving, listen for thumping or vibration that could indicate a developing tyre defect, especially when cornering or under load. The washer jet mis‑alignment and wiper inefficiency are straightforward to remedy – a dealer or competent garage can adjust the jet nozzles and replace the wiper blade or motor if necessary, but the buyer should verify that the system now clears the windscreen cleanly before committing to purchase. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, the buyer should also conduct a thorough age‑related check. Examine the tyre sidewalls for dry‑rot, as rubber can perish after six years regardless of mileage. Inspect the suspension bushes, ball joints and coil springs for any signs of corrosion, cracking or excessive play, and test for clunking noises over bumps. Verify that the 12 V battery holds a healthy charge and that the terminals are free of corrosion, as a five‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Finally, confirm that the brake discs and pads show even wear and are not scored or glazed, and that all fluid reservoirs (engine oil, brake, coolant and power‑steering) have been topped up or replaced in line with the manufacturer’s calendar service intervals, as fluids degrade with time even on a relatively low‑mileage vehicle.