2011 Renault Scenic 1.5L Diesel · KU11 LKF

A pattern of front suspension wear has defined this Renault Scenic's MOT history, with advisories for ball joint play recorded on three separate occasions between 2020 and 2023, covering both nearside and offside front lower suspension arms. The most recent test on 11 July 2026 recorded a pass with three advisories, two concerning light output reduction from product contamination on both headlamps and one noting a non-excessive oil leak. These headlamp observations are relatively minor and typically addressable through cleaning or lens restoration, though they may indicate deteriorating plastic lens covers that have allowed internal condensation or road film accumulation. Notably, the 2021 test produced the only failure in the history, recording a dangerous offside rear tyre structural separation, a nearside rear tyre cut exposing ply or cords, a failed offside headlamp dipped beam, and advisories for both front tyres being worn close to the legal limit on their edges. Mileage progression across the seven recorded tests from March 2020 to July 2026 shows accumulation at roughly typical rates for the vehicle's age, with the odometer reading 110,551 miles at the most recent test. There are no extended gaps in the testing record, indicating continuous use throughout the period covered. The annual mileage rate of approximately 7,370 miles per year sits close to the average for a 15-year-old vehicle, which is consistent with mixed-use family motoring. No rapid mileage escalation is evident between consecutive tests, suggesting no commercial or high-intensity usage pattern that would accelerate wear on the drivetrain, clutch, or braking components beyond what is already evident from the suspension advisories. For a prospective buyer, the priority mechanical area is the front suspension geometry and its associated joints. The repeated advisories for ball joint play on both nearside and offside lower suspension arms across multiple tests indicate that although these joints have never been recorded as failing outright, they have been a persistent wear item. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end when traversing speed bumps or potholes, and pay particular attention to any vagueness or delay in steering response, especially over uneven surfaces. A physical check should involve jacking the front wheels off the ground and rocking each wheel at the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions to detect any free play in the track rod ends, which were flagged for slight play as recently as March 2023. Uneven front tyre wear on the inner or outer edges, as noted in the 2021 advisories, would also suggest ongoing suspension misalignment or worn bushes. The oil leak advisory from the 2026 test warrants a hands-on inspection, as even a non-excessive leak can indicate failing camshaft seals, a porous timing cover, or valve cover gasket deterioration common on higher-mileage Renault engines of this era. Check the underside of the engine and bellhousing area for fresh oil accumulation and inspect the spark plug wells if accessible. The headlamp lens contamination issue, while not serious at present, should be monitored as it can progressively reduce beam pattern effectiveness, particularly in low-light conditions. Verify both dipped and main beam operation on the offside unit, given its complete failure was recorded in 2021. Finally, inspect all four tyres for age-related sidewall cracking and uneven wear patterns, and confirm the spare and tool kit are present, as the 2021 dangerous tyre failure highlights the importance of current, structurally sound rubber on a vehicle of this age and mileage.