2011 Renault GRD Scenic Expression DCI FAP 1.5L Diesel · LP60 OHS

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2011 Renault Clio Scenic Expression DCI FAP was conducted on 2023-01-26, resulting in a passing outcome with no recorded defects. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that warrant careful consideration. While there are two failed MOTs, both in 2021 and 2019, the intervening years show clean passes, suggesting that the vehicle has been maintained to a reasonable standard but with notable recurring problems—particularly in tyre wear, headlamp alignment, and brake condition. The 2021 failures included multiple advisories on tyre wear and damage, alongside a dangerous failure for rear brake pads being below the legal minimum thickness, indicating that the vehicle has not been fully addressed in these critical areas. The 2019 failure further underscores the need for attention to brake system integrity, as the rear brake pads were critically worn, which could pose a safety risk if not rectified promptly. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 73,588 miles at the time of this assessment is unusually low for a car of its age, approximately 15 years old. This suggests either a very light usage profile or prolonged periods of standing, which can lead to specific wear patterns and potential issues. Low mileage alone does not guarantee mechanical soundness, as standing vehicles can suffer from standing corrosion—particularly on brake components, suspension linkages, and undercarriage fittings—due to moisture exposure. Additionally, fluid degradation over time (e.g., brake fluid, differential fluid, coolant) can accelerate without regular use, and tyre perishing from prolonged exposure to sunlight and oxygen is a common concern in older vehicles. The annual mileage rate of around 4,906 miles is significantly lower than typical usage for a car of this age, which may imply that the vehicle has been kept in a static condition for extended periods, potentially exacerbating issues like brake pad binding, suspension stiffness, or fluid contamination. For a prospective buyer, this vehicle presents several key inspection priorities. First, the DVSA advisories on tyre wear and damage from 2021—particularly the nearside front tyre showing signs of cracking or perishing and the offside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit—demand immediate attention. Tyres that are cracked or perished can fail catastrophically, leading to a blowout, and those worn on the edge may indicate misalignment or poor handling, which could worsen over time. On a test drive, listen for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues, and check for excessive vibration or pulling, which could indicate tyre or wheel balance problems. Additionally, visually inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of dry rot or delamination, as this can compromise structural integrity. The rear brake pads failing the 2019 MOT with less than 1.5 mm of friction material remaining are a critical concern; this suggests the pads are dangerously worn and should be replaced immediately. Inspect the brake discs for scoring, warping, or corrosion, and listen for grinding noises when applying the brakes, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact. If the pads are binding or the discs are corroded, this may require recalibration or replacement of the calipers. Beyond the mechanical checks, given the vehicle’s low mileage and potential prolonged standing, a thorough inspection of standing corrosion is essential. Check the undercarriage for signs of rust, particularly around wheel arches, exhaust components, and suspension fittings, as these areas are prone to moisture accumulation. Inspect the brake system for signs of corrosion on the calipers, brake lines, or wheel cylinders, as standing corrosion can cause brake fluid leaks or binding. The 12V battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or weak cells. Additionally, since the vehicle has not been driven regularly, check the fluid levels in the differential, transmission, and coolant systems for signs of contamination or degradation. Given the age of the vehicle, consider verifying the service book for any scheduled fluid changes or maintenance intervals, as time-based servicing (e.g., every 2 years for brake fluid) is critical even with low mileage. Finally, ensure the headlamp alignment is corrected, as the 2021 MOT failure highlighted an issue with the nearside headlamp being too high, which could impair visibility and be a safety hazard. A professional alignment should be performed to restore proper beam pattern.