2008 Renault Modus 1.1L Petrol · MM08 BVT

The most recent MOT recorded on 6 August 2026 shows a pass, albeit with a series of advisories covering a discoloured rear direction indicator, a product on the headlamp lens, front brake disc wear and a minor oil leak. The same date also records a failure for several major items – a non‑functional nearside front position lamp, excessive play in the off‑side front track‑rod end ball joint and a deteriorated anti‑roll‑bar linkage dust cover. This juxtaposition indicates that the vehicle was initially failed, remedial work was carried out, and it subsequently passed. Over the last four years the pattern has been one of recurring major faults (track‑rod and steering rack play, lamp failures and rear exhaust mounting) interspersed with advisory‑only passes, suggesting a maintenance trend that is currently stabilising but has been historically deteriorating. At 131,063 mi the car averages roughly 7,300 mi per year, which is typical for a 2008 model and does not point to any extreme mileage spikes. The mileage is modest enough that wear on major power‑train components such as the engine and transmission should be within normal limits, but the age of the vehicle means that age‑related degradation of rubber, metal and fluid integrity is now a greater concern than sheer distance travelled. The relatively low annual mileage also implies periods of limited use, which can exacerbate corrosion on suspension joints, brake discs and battery plates. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension and steering assemblies. The repeated excessive play in both nearside and off‑side track‑rod end ball joints, together with the noted play in the steering rack inner joint, is a classic source of steering shudder, vague wandering and clunking noises when turning or hitting bumps. Inspect the ball‑joint boots for torn rubber or leaking grease, verify that the steering rack feels tight with no play at the ends of the steering wheel, and consider replacing the affected joints and any corroded bushings. The off‑side front anti‑roll‑bar linkage dust cover is no longer sealing, allowing dirt to infiltrate the joint; a cracked or missing cover should be replaced to prevent premature wear. The front brake discs, flagged as worn but not yet excessive, should be measured for thickness and inspected for scoring; if the discs are approaching the minimum legal limit, replacement will be required soon to avoid brake fade. The persistent minor oil leak, noted each year, warrants a leak‑down test to locate the source – whether a valve cover gasket, oil filter housing or crankcase breather – as unchecked leaks can lead to low oil levels and engine wear. Finally, the lamp failures (nearside front position lamp and off‑side stop/position lamps) and the damaged rear light unit should be rectified, as they are safety‑critical and may re‑trigger a MOT failure. Beyond the documented faults, age‑related checks are essential. Examine all tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven wear that may stem from long periods of storage; even if tread depth appears adequate, rubber can become brittle after more than ten years. Test the 12 V battery voltage under load and check for corrosion on terminals, as batteries of this vintage often need replacement. Verify that coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid have been changed within the recommended intervals – fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage and can cause corrosion or reduced performance. Look for any signs of rust on the chassis, especially around the rear exhaust mounting point that was previously reported as defective; rusted brackets should be repaired or reinforced. A complete service book with stamps for oil changes, timing belt (if applicable) and major inspections will give confidence that the vehicle has been cared for despite its age.