2009 Renault Scenic 1.5L Diesel · PJ59 RSX

A pattern of progressive suspension wear and recurring brake‑system deficiencies runs through the MOT history, with the latest test on 10 July 2026 recording a pass but still flagging front brake disc wear, thin rear‑pad material and a near‑limit front tyre, alongside a minor oil‑leak advisory. Earlier failures in 2025 and 2023 highlighted a dangerous rear hydraulic fluid leak, severely low brake fluid and missing wheel‑fixing hardware, while multiple years show ball‑joint and arm‑bush wear on both front and off‑side suspension components. The record therefore points to a vehicle that has been able to meet the legal minimum but is carrying a backlog of wear that has not yet escalated to outright failure. At 171 540 mi the car averages just over 10 000 mi per annum, a figure that sits comfortably within typical usage for a 2009 model. The MOT chronology shows no prolonged gaps in testing, suggesting the vehicle has been kept on the road consistently rather than stored for extended periods. This steady mileage accumulation means wear items such as tyres, brake pads and suspension bushings are likely to be approaching the end of their service lives, but it also implies the drivetrain and engine have not been subjected to extreme short‑term mileage spikes that could accelerate hidden failures. When you inspect the car, concentrate on the front and rear suspension assemblies: listen for clunks or knocks over bumps, feel for any steering pull, and check for uneven tyre wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn ball joints. The front brake discs have been noted as worn and pitted on several occasions; verify disc thickness with a micrometer and feel for pedal judder or a spongy brake pedal that may betray contaminated fluid or worn pads. The rear hydraulic leak recorded in 2025 should be examined for dripping fluid around the rear caliper and for any staining on the disc surface, while the oil‑leak advisory warrants a visual check for fresh oil trails on the sump or under the engine bay. A prudent pre‑purchase inspection should include replacement of the front brake fluid, replacement of the thin off‑side rear pads and an assessment of whether the front discs need resurfacing or replacement. Given the repeated suspension arm and ball‑joint advisories, a thorough check of the front lower arms, rear bushings and off‑side ball joint is advisable, with replacement considered if any play is felt. Finally, address the persistent registration‑plate lamp fault and verify that all exterior lighting complies with legal requirements before finalising the purchase.