2013 Renault Rimor 2.3L Diesel · LT13 DVC

The most recent MOT on 30 April 2025 was passed, but it carried a series of advisories covering the front sub‑frame corrosion, tyre damage or perishing on all four wheels and two tyres worn close to the legal limit. Earlier tests show a gradual accumulation of advisories: the 2023 test flagged a defective rear‑exhaust mounting and a front tyre near the wear limit, while the 2020 test already noted multiple tyres at the wear limit and an air‑bag warning. The pattern indicates a maintenance trend that is slipping rather than improving, with wear‑related items becoming more pronounced over the last few years. At 44,798 miles the vehicle averages roughly 3,400 miles per year, which is well below the typical usage for a thirteen‑year‑old car. Such low annual mileage often points to long periods of inactivity or very light use. While low mileage reduces cumulative wear on engine and drivetrain components, it can exacerbate age‑related deterioration such as rubber hardening, battery sulphation and corrosion of chassis parts that are not regularly exercised. The mileage figure therefore suggests that the car may have been sitting for extended periods, a factor that should be considered when inspecting for time‑based degradation. Prospective buyers should give the tyre condition the highest priority. All four tyres have been flagged for cracking or perishing and two are already at the legal tread limit, so a full visual inspection of sidewalls for dry rot, bulges or cracking is essential, and the tyres will almost certainly need replacement as a matter of safety. While the car is running, listen for any vibration or shudder through the steering that could indicate uneven wear or a damaged tyre. The rear‑exhaust mounting noted as defective in 2023 should be examined for loosened brackets or cracked hangers; a rattling sound at low speed or a noticeable exhaust leak would confirm the need for repair. The front sub‑frame corrosion advisory calls for a close look at the underside of the vehicle, checking for rust that has progressed beyond surface staining, especially around mounting points, as excessive corrosion can compromise structural rigidity and affect suspension alignment. Given the vehicle’s age and low usage, additional time‑based checks are advisable. Verify the 12 V battery’s state of charge and its ability to hold a charge, as prolonged standing often leads to sulphation; a load test at the garage will reveal any weakness. Inspect all rubber hoses, coolant hoses and the brake lines for signs of drying, cracking or leaks, and confirm that the brake fluid has been changed within the recommended two‑year interval, as moisture absorption can reduce braking performance. Examine the suspension bushings and ball joints for any play or corrosion that could produce clunking noises over bumps. Finally, ensure that the air‑bag warning light has been reset and that the passenger air‑bag is functional, and confirm that all exterior lamps operate correctly, correcting the nearside rear registration lamp that was previously inoperative. Addressing these items will give a clear picture of the car’s roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it to a reliable, safe condition.