2022 Renault Master LM35 Business+ Blue DCI 2.3L Diesel · PF22 UFK

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 2026-08-20 resulted in a clean pass, indicating no defects were found at that time. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of excessive wear in the front suspension ball joints, with both the nearside and offside front sub-frame ball joints failing the MOT in 2025-08-22 under the same category of excessive wear. This suggests a persistent mechanical issue that has not been adequately addressed, as the vehicle passed subsequent tests without such failures. The fact that the ball joints were deemed excessively worn—typically requiring replacement—implies either a lack of routine maintenance, a design flaw in the suspension geometry, or cumulative stress from high-mileage usage. Without evidence of corrective action or a replacement, the buyer should be cautious, as this could lead to further suspension failure, reduced handling stability, and potential road safety risks if the joints fail prematurely. The recorded mileage of 147,703 miles for a vehicle aged four years represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 36,926 miles per annum, which is notably elevated for its class. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on critical components such as suspension bushings, ball joints, brake pads, tyres, and drivetrain elements like the differential and transmission. The rapid mileage suggests either intensive operational demands, potentially including towing or off-road driving, or prolonged periods of high usage without adequate maintenance breaks. This pattern is particularly concerning given the prior MOT failures related to suspension ball joints, as excessive mileage often exacerbates wear in these components. Additionally, the absence of a service history or mileage-based maintenance records may indicate either neglect or an over-reliance on the vehicle’s capacity without proper upkeep. Given the vehicle’s history of excessive suspension ball joint wear, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the front suspension system. Focus on the nearside and offside front sub-frame ball joints, checking for signs of excessive play, noise (such as clunking or rattling when driving over bumps), or physical damage. Visually inspect the bushings and ball joints for signs of wear, cracking, or oil staining, which may indicate leakage or internal failure. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises when negotiating rough roads or sharp turns, as these can reveal suspension component failure. If the ball joints are confirmed to be worn beyond safe operational limits, replacement is strongly advised, as further deterioration could lead to steering instability, reduced vehicle control, or even a loss of steering lock. For the buyer, the next critical steps involve addressing the suspension issues and ensuring the vehicle’s broader roadworthiness. Immediate action should be taken to replace the failed ball joints, ideally with high-quality aftermarket or OEM parts, and have the suspension sub-frame inspected for signs of stress or damage. Beyond the suspension, the buyer should also verify the condition of the front tyres, checking for uneven wear patterns that could indicate misalignment or suspension issues. Given the high mileage, the brakes should be inspected for signs of excessive heat damage, warping, or binding calipers, which may require professional assessment. Additionally, the vehicle’s fluid levels—particularly the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—should be checked and topped up if necessary, as high mileage can accelerate fluid degradation over time. If the buyer is concerned about the vehicle’s history, obtaining a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified independent mechanic is strongly recommended to confirm the absence of hidden mechanical issues and ensure the vehicle’s safety and reliability.