2018 Renault Kadjar 1.2L Petrol · LC18 FDG

The most recent MOT test conducted in June 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance profile shows a concerning downward trend. While the vehicle maintained a clean record from 2021 through 2024, the subsequent tests in 2025 and 2026 have introduced several recurring advisories and new minor defects. This shift suggests that the vehicle is beginning to manifest age-related degradation that was previously dormant, moving from a pristine status to one requiring proactive mechanical attention to prevent future failures. With only 29,532 miles recorded over approximately eight years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 3,692 miles per annum. This is exceptionally low usage for a Renault Kadjar, which implies the vehicle has likely spent significant periods stationary or has been used primarily for very short-distance trips. While low mileage typically suggests less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it often leads to specific issues associated with inactivity, such as the perishing of rubber components, the degradation of fluids, and the corrosion of braking surfaces due to a lack of regular heat cycles and friction. Prospective buyers must pay close attention to the recent suspension and braking advisories. The 2026 test identified severely deteriorated dust covers on both front lower ball joints. While currently classified as a minor defect, these cracked covers allow grit and moisture to enter the joint, which will lead to premature mechanical failure. During a test drive, listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when turning the steering wheel or traversing uneven surfaces, as this indicates play in the suspension. Furthermore, the recurring advisory regarding worn and lipped front brake discs suggests they are approaching the end of their service life. You should check for any brake shudder or pulsation through the pedal when decelerating from higher speeds, which would indicate disc warping or excessive uneven wear. The combination of tyre perishing and exhaust corrosion is a direct consequence of the low-mileage usage profile. The offside front tyre has been flagged for cracking and perishing in two consecutive years; you must inspect the sidewalls and tread grooves for deep cracks that could compromise structural integrity. Additionally, the advisory for a corroded exhaust system means you should inspect the underside of the vehicle for heavy scaling or signs of structural thinning. Given the vehicle's history of standing, I also recommend verifying the service history for evidence of annual oil changes regardless of mileage, as well as testing the 12V battery health and ensuring that all fluids, particularly brake fluid, are fresh and have been changed according to the manufacturer's time-based intervals.