2022 Renault Arkana RS Line E-Tech HEV Auto 1.6L Hybrid electric (clean) · ML72 ATV

A defined mechanical weakness in the front suspension and a recent tyre depth failure punctuate the MOT record of this 2022 Renault Arkana. The 2026-02-28 test resulted in a FAIL outcome driven by three notable defects: a front wiper system failing to clear the screen effectively, a serious fluid leak from the offside front shock absorber, and a dangerously low nearside rear tyre below the 1.6mm legal threshold. Just nine days later, on 2026-03-09, the vehicle returned and passed, but the offside rear tyre was again flagged as an advisory for low tread at 3mm. The combination of a shock absorber hydraulic leak and a tyre worn to below legal limits within a single test visit points to a specific area of mechanical risk: the front damping assembly and the rear axle tyre wear pattern. The close proximity of the failed test and the subsequent pass suggests remedial work was completed, but the original defects, particularly the shock absorber seal failure, warrant careful mechanical verification before purchase. At four years of age and 69,347 recorded miles, the Arkana is running at roughly 17,337 miles per year, which is high for its class and age. This rate of accumulation places greater demand on suspension bushes, coil springs, brake discs, pads, drive belts, the E-Tech hybrid drivetrain, and general underbody components. There are no extended gaps in the MOT record provided, indicating continuous use rather than long periods of standing, which reduces the risk of dry-joint corrosion, brake seizure, and 12V battery degradation. The recorded annual mileage is consistent with motorway or high-mileage commuter use, where braking and steering components typically wear faster than on lower-mileage vehicles. For the suspension components specifically flagged, a physical inspection should begin with the offside front shock absorber area. Hydraulic fluid weeping from the unit body, residue tracking down the lower mounting, or a damp coil spring seat would indicate the replacement was inadequate or that further seal degradation is present. On a test drive, listen for clonking noises over speed humps, observe whether the vehicle settles unevenly after compression, and check for excessive nose-dive under braking or cornering roll that feels looser than expected. The offside rear tyre advisory at 3mm suggests an uneven wear pattern at the rear axle, so a check of rear wheel alignment, camber, and tyre shoulder wear versus centre wear is worthwhile, as the E-Tech hybrid rear suspension geometry can be sensitive to alignment deviation. For the braking system and general underbody, given the high annual mileage, inspect the discs for a pronounced lip on the outer edge and feel for pedal judder or pulsing under firm application. The nearside rear tyre having dropped below 1.6mm suggests that the rotation and replacement cycle may not have been diligently observed, so all four tyres should be closely measured and checked for age-related sidewall cracking. With the E-Tech hybrid drivetrain, listen for any unusual transmission shunt on low-speed transitions between electric and petrol drive, and verify that the 12V auxiliary battery and the hybrid system show no warning messages on the dashboard. The 2026 wiper failure should also be confirmed as resolved, ensuring the wiper blades, linkage, and motor operate smoothly across the full swept area.