2009 Renault Laguna 2.0L Diesel · NJ09 XAP

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT in November 2025, but this was only after fixing a fault where the stop lamps remained on when the brakes were released. The history reveals a concerning pattern of braking system issues that you should not ignore. In 2024, the car failed its MOT due to a severely ineffective parking brake, with efficiency recorded at less than 50% and one side completely inoperative. While the 2025 failure was a less serious electrical switch problem, the recurrence of faults within the braking system suggests a lack of proactive maintenance on safety-critical components. The mileage is relatively low for a 17-year-old car, averaging under 6,000 miles per year. This low usage often correlates with the parking brake failure seen in 2024, as long periods of inactivity can cause cables to seize and components to corrode. The vehicle is not heavily worn, but it may suffer from issues related to standing idle. You should prioritise a test drive that includes testing the parking brake on a steep hill to ensure it holds firmly. Physically inspect the rear brake mechanisms for seized cables or sticking calipers, and verify that the foot brake feels sharp and responsive without any sponginess.