2017 Renault Kadjar 1.2L Petrol · HT66 XAH

The 2017 Renault Kadjar’s most recent MOT test on 2025-11-10 resulted in a failure due to a critical tyre failure—specifically, the offside front tyre exhibiting exposed ply or cords in its sidewall, which is a severe breach of the 5.2.3 (d) (ii) standard and poses a significant safety risk. This failure follows a previous MOT on the same date that only recorded advisories for minor tyre damage on both the near and offside rear tyres, indicating a rapid deterioration in tyre condition that warrants immediate attention. The earlier passing MOTs in 2024 and 2023, along with the consistent passing of 2022, suggest a stable maintenance history prior to this failure, but the sudden escalation in tyre defects suggests either inadequate or reactive tyre management. The presence of recurring advisories for worn suspension components—particularly the front suspension arm pins or bushes and track rod end ball joints—also suggests a pattern of wear that may be compounded by the vehicle’s usage profile, though these were not critical failures and did not affect roadworthiness at the time of testing. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 91,758 miles over roughly nine years represents an average annual mileage of around 10,195 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and model, particularly if it has been used in mixed conditions including city and highway driving. However, the absence of a service history or mileage gaps between MOT tests raises concerns about potential under-maintenance or uneven usage patterns. Higher mileage typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and tyre tread, but the rapid progression of tyre failure—from minor damage to exposed ply in just one MOT cycle—could indicate either aggressive driving, poor tyre storage or rotation practices, or a lack of regular checks. The suspension advisories may also hint at underlying issues if the wear is progressive, such as misalignment or excessive play in the suspension geometry, which could lead to further mechanical stress over time. As a prospective buyer, the most urgent concern is the exposed ply in the offside front tyre, which mandates immediate replacement to prevent blowouts or sudden loss of control. Inspect the tyre further for signs of lateral cracking or dry rot, which could indicate deeper structural compromise, and ensure the replacement tyres meet the original load and speed ratings. During a test drive, listen for uneven tyre wear patterns—particularly on the offside front—which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues that could exacerbate tyre failure. Additionally, check for excessive play in the steering wheel or suspension, as this could indicate worn suspension components, such as the front suspension arm bushes or track rod ends, which were flagged as advisories in prior MOTs. If the vehicle has been stationary for prolonged periods, inspect the front wheels for signs of corrosion or binding calipers due to moisture ingress, as standing vehicles can accelerate corrosion on brake discs and hubs. Beyond the immediate tyre and suspension concerns, conduct a thorough physical inspection of the Kadjar’s age-appropriate wear items. Given the vehicle’s mileage and age, examine the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with low mileage if the rubber has degraded from age or exposure to UV light. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion around terminals, poor connections, or reduced voltage output, as older batteries in stationary vehicles can fail more quickly. Inspect the engine bay for fluid leaks, particularly from the coolant system, transmission, and brake fluids, which can degrade over time even if the vehicle is not driven daily. Verify that the service book or service records include time-based maintenance, such as oil changes every 15,000–20,000 miles or every 12 months, as well as fluid top-ups for the brake, coolant, and power steering systems. If the Kadjar has not been driven regularly, consider a professional check of the exhaust emissions system, as prolonged idling or lack of use can lead to carbon buildup or sensor malfunctions, which may not be detected during routine MOT testing. Finally, ensure the vehicle’s alignment and wheel bearings are functioning correctly, as improper alignment can accelerate tyre wear and compromise handling.