2015 Renault Megane 1.5L Diesel · JRZ 5009

The most recent MOT, carried out on 15 January 2026, was a pass but recorded several advisories: light oil misting from both front shock absorbers, slight play in the lower anti‑roll‑bar ball joints on each side and mild surface wear on the near‑side front brake disc. Earlier that same week the vehicle had failed due to exhaust fumes entering the cabin, a serious fault that appears to have been remedied before the subsequent pass. Over the past two years the pattern shows recurring minor wear on the front suspension and braking components, with occasional major failures that have since been corrected, indicating a maintenance trend that is stabilising but still requires attention to the front‑end wear items. At 78 650 mi for a 2015 model the car averages roughly 7 150 mi per annum, which is in line with typical UK usage. The mileage does not suggest any periods of high‑speed, high‑load operation, nor does it reveal long stretches of inactivity that might have led to battery sulphation or tyre perishing. The relatively modest annual run‑off means that wear on consumables such as brakes, tyres and suspension bushes is likely to be age‑driven rather than mileage‑driven, but the cumulative distance is sufficient for normal component fatigue. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the front suspension and braking system. Inspect the shock absorbers for any external oil staining and test for loss of damping by feeling for excessive bounce or a soft, mushy ride when applying the brakes. A jounce test on each front corner will reveal whether the lower anti‑roll‑bar ball joints still exhibit the slight play noted in the advisories; any clunking or looseness under load could indicate the need for replacement. The brake discs, especially the near‑side front one, show surface pitting and scoring; while not yet structurally compromised, they may soon require resurfacing or replacement, and the pads should be examined for uneven wear that could signal caliper binding. Verify that the exhaust system is sealed correctly and that there is no lingering cabin infiltration of fumes, as this was a recent major failure. Also confirm that all exterior lighting, notably the rear stop lamp, operates correctly. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of age‑related items is advisable. Check all tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or ageing signs, even if tread depth appears adequate, and consider replacing tyres that are more than six years old. Examine the battery terminals for corrosion and have the 12 V battery load‑tested, as prolonged standing can reduce capacity. Look for corrosion or seized movement in suspension bushes, coil springs and steering rack components, and ensure that engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals, as fluids degrade with time irrespective of mileage. A full service history with recent oil changes and any suspension or brake work will provide further confidence in the car’s roadworthiness.