2017 Renault Captur 1.5L Diesel · PF17 VNP

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend shows a worsening condition regarding steering and suspension wear components. The most recent test in January 2026 at 116,362 miles identified a new defect involving free play in the steering rack alongside an offside front tyre worn to the legal limit. This represents a progression from the 2025 test, where only a rear tyre was flagged, suggesting that components are now reaching the end of their life. The mileage accumulation is high for a nine-year-old vehicle, averaging nearly 13,000 miles per year. There is a significant surge in usage between January 2023 and January 2024, where the car covered over 25,000 miles in a single year. This rapid increase correlates with the transition from a clean MOT record in 2023 to multiple mechanical advisories in subsequent tests. Such high-intensity use places considerable stress on the drivetrain and suspension geometry, which aligns with the recurring issues with tyres and steering. A buyer must inspect the steering system closely to determine if the reported free play in the rack requires an expensive replacement. The recurring issues with inner edge tyre wear in 2022 and 2025 indicate a persistent alignment problem or worn suspension bushes that have not been adequately addressed. Additionally, the front brake discs, which were already pitted and scored in 2022, should be checked for thickness and surface integrity, as the high mileage since that test likely accelerated the degradation of these consumable components.