2019 Renault ZOE Electric · OY69 AFN

The latest MOT test result for the 2019 Renault Zoe reflects a stable maintenance profile with no defects recorded since February 2026, following a series of previous failures and advisories. While the vehicle did fail in February 2026 due to serious issues such as a deteriorated front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover, leaking front shock absorbers, and inadequate washer fluid, these problems were rectified, as evidenced by the subsequent clean test results. The previous year’s MOT in January 2025 also highlighted worn suspension ball joint dust covers, indicating a recurring but manageable wear pattern in the front suspension components. The absence of further failures in the intervening period suggests that the vehicle has been maintained appropriately, though the wear on certain components—particularly the suspension bushings and tyres—demands closer attention to prevent escalation. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 43,913 miles over approximately seven years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 6,273 miles per annum, which aligns with typical driving patterns for an electric vehicle of this age. This level of mileage is not excessively high for a seven-year-old car, though it does imply moderate to heavy use, particularly in the suspension, braking, and tyre systems. The presence of advisories from 2022 regarding tyre wear close to legal limits—particularly on the front tyres—suggests that the vehicle has been driven with some degree of regularity, accelerating wear in the tread and sidewall areas. The minor cracking or perishing of the front tyres’ sidewalls, also noted in 2022, is a critical concern for long-term reliability, as sidewall damage can compromise structural integrity and increase the risk of sudden blowouts. For the prospective buyer, the immediate priorities should focus on addressing the recurring suspension issues and the tyre conditions. On inspection, the front suspension ball joints and anti-roll bar linkage should be visually checked for any signs of excessive play, clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, or reduced steering responsiveness, which could indicate further deterioration. The leaking front shock absorbers from the 2026 MOT failure must be replaced promptly, as fluid loss accelerates their failure, leading to poor ride quality, uneven tyre wear, and potential suspension collapse. Listen for a harsh, metallic clunking when driving over rough roads or when the vehicle is in a low gear, as this often signals worn suspension bushings or broken suspension arms. Additionally, the front tyres should be replaced as soon as possible, given the wear close to legal limits and the sidewall damage, which could compromise handling and safety. A professional tyre fitment with new sidewall protection should be recommended to mitigate future risks. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle’s standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, rocker panels, and beneath the chassis, where moisture and salt exposure can accelerate rust progression. Given the vehicle’s age and the advisories from 2022, the battery health should be evaluated, as electric vehicles are particularly susceptible to degradation in older batteries, which can lead to reduced range, charging inefficiency, or complete failure. Check for signs of swelling or bulging in the battery pack, as well as any unusual electrical symptoms such as slow cranking, dashboard warning lights, or intermittent power issues. The brake system should also be inspected for signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, especially if the vehicle has been left stationary for prolonged periods, as this can cause uneven braking performance or reduced stopping ability. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full fluid service in several years, the coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid should be checked for contamination or degradation, with a recommendation to replace them according to manufacturer specifications. The rear registration plate deterioration, while not critical, should be addressed to avoid potential legal issues during future MOT tests.