2021 Renault Kangoo Electricity · NX71 UPT

A developing steering concern sits at the centre of this Kangoo's mechanical narrative, with the most recent MOT on 19 September 2025 initially recording an advisory for play in the steering rack inner joint before a failure on the same date added two major defects for nearside wiper effectiveness and a non-compliant rear fog lamp. Both majors were evidently rectified in short order, as the pass certificate issued that same day carried forward only the steering rack advisory, suggesting the lighting and wiper issues were straightforward replacements rather than symptoms of deeper electrical or body integrity concerns. The 2024 test on 15 October returned a clean pass with no advisories or failures, so the 2025 result marks a clear shift from a previously unblemished record into a vehicle beginning to flag wear-related items in its fifth year. The retention of the steering rack advisory on the pass certificate is the most significant takeaway, as advisories carry over between attempts when the defect remains present, and inner joint play on a rack-and-pinion system tends to progress rather than self-correct. Mileage accumulation of roughly 10,493 miles annually over a five-year span sits squarely within typical usage parameters for a Kangoo of this generation, neither indicating the heavy commercial-abuse profile that accelerates clutch, dual-mass flywheel, and rear suspension wear nor suggesting extended periods of standing that can degrade tyre sidewalls, battery health, and brake discs through corrosion pitting. The progression from 2024 to 2025 implies approximately 17,000 to 18,000 miles were covered between tests, a reasonable figure that reflects consistent operational use rather than any dramatic escalation or concerning gaps. For a Kangoo, this kind of steady mileage pattern is broadly favourable mechanically, as it tends to keep the diesel particulate filter, turbocharger, and EGR valve operating within their intended duty cycles, reducing the risk of short-trip regeneration failures that plague low-mileage examples. The steering rack inner joint advisory warrants close physical attention at any viewing, as the buyer should request a cold-start demonstration and listen carefully for any clonking or metallic knocking from the steering column area during lock-to-lock turns, particularly with the engine off and again with the engine running to isolate hydraulic or mechanical sources. On the road, pay particular heed to any vagueness or delay in steering response around the central straight-ahead position, as inner joint play typically manifests as a slight delay before the front wheels respond to small steering inputs, and this can develop into a more pronounced wander on undulating roads. Inspect the underside of the front subframe and rack mounting area for any signs of weeping fluid from the rack bellows, and check that the inner tie rod gaiters are intact and free from tears, as a compromised gaiter allows contamination that rapidly accelerates joint wear. Steering components on Renault light commercials are known to deteriorate progressively once initial play is flagged, and the cost of a replacement rack assembly on this platform is not insignificant. Beyond the steering concern, the two major failures from the same September 2025 test should be verified as fully resolved. Confirm that the nearside wiper arc effectively clears the driver-side A-pillar vision area during both dry and wet conditions, and check that the rear fog lamp produces a steady, unvarying red output without flickering or dimming when first activated, as a recurrent fault could point to a deeper wiring or earth integrity issue rather than a simple bulb replacement. Given the vehicle's age and mileage, also conduct a thorough road test listening for any front suspension knocks over speed humps and uneven surfaces, as Kangoo front lower arms and anti-roll bar bushes commonly deteriorate within this mileage band even when not yet flagged on test. Finally, verify the braking system feels firm and progressive without any pulling to one side under moderate pedal pressure, as the combination of inner steering joint wear and any latent front brake binding can produce a compounded instability that warrants rectification before purchase.