2017 Renault Unknown 12.8L Diesel · LX17 ABN

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 17 December 2021 resulted in a PASS, but it is important to note that an entry immediately preceding it on the same date shows the vehicle FAILED with three Major defects recorded. While the pass means the vehicle subsequently met the minimum roadworthiness standard, the failed attempt indicates that attention was required to bring the vehicle up to that standard. The defects themselves were relatively straightforward in nature, covering a windscreen washer shortfall, a missing front registration plate, and a missing road wheel fixing on the nearside front, none of which suggest underlying mechanical deterioration. However, the simultaneous presence of a missing wheel fixing is a safety-critical item and should be verified by the buyer as properly rectified with the correct torque and replacement component. Overall, the maintenance trend cannot be described as fully clean given the recent failure, but there is no escalating pattern of structural, brake, or emissions concerns across the recorded history. The vehicle is approximately nine years old yet has covered only 15,174 recorded miles, equating to an average annual mileage of roughly 1,686 miles, which is exceptionally low. This usage profile suggests the vehicle has either been operated very lightly or has stood for prolonged periods between uses, and it is essential to recognise that low mileage does not equate to a well-preserved vehicle in calendar terms. Rubber components, fluids, and corrosion are all subject to age-based degradation irrespective of distance travelled, and standing vehicles commonly suffer from binding brake calipers, surface corrosion on brake discs, tyre sidewall perishing, and stale fuel. The absence of mileage progression across recent years should be queried, and any periods of SORN or inactivity investigated to understand the operating environment. Given the very low recorded mileage and the nine-year age of this commercial vehicle, the prospective buyer must carry out a number of time-based inspections that would not normally be considered on a higher-mileage example. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking, perishing, and uneven tread wear, particularly on the inside shoulder where misalignment or prolonged standing can cause flat-spotting and degradation. The brake discs and calipers should be inspected for severe surface corrosion, seized caliper slide pins, and any evidence of binding that could lead to pulling or overheating under load. The 12V battery should be load tested, as prolonged periods of inactivity drastically shorten service life, and all fluids including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and any hydraulic or AdBlue system fluids should be checked for condition and replacement history, as brake fluid is hygroscopic and should be renewed at least every two years regardless of mileage. A careful test drive should be conducted with particular attention to suspension refinement, listening for clunks or knocks from worn bushes, drop links, or coil springs that may have deteriorated through age rather than mileage. The clutch and gearbox should be exercised fully, as prolonged standing can lead to clutch corrosion or hydraulic seizure, and any warning lights on the dashboard should be interrogated with a diagnostic tool to identify stored faults that would not be flagged under standard MOT inspection categories. Where possible, evidence of regular service book stamps or invoices should be obtained to confirm that time-based servicing has been carried out at the correct intervals, particularly for cambelt or timing chain replacement, which is typically calendar-driven. Finally, given the unusual configuration of this Renault Trucks model, the specific body, lifting equipment, or specialist conversion fitted should be independently inspected by a suitably qualified engineer, as commercial chassis of this type often carry additional systems outside the scope of the standard MOT test.