2014 Renault Scenic 1.5L Diesel · PL63 EXF

A consistent record of clean passes from 2019 through 2023 has recently given way to a trend of brake component degradation and suspension corrosion. While the latest test on 27 October 2025 was recorded as a pass with no defects, the preceding two years of inspections flagged pitting and scoring on both front and rear brake discs, as well as thinning brake pads. This shift indicates a period of increased wear or environmental impact on the braking system and chassis components. The recorded mileage of 40,801 miles is low for a twelve year old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,400 miles per year. Such a low annual accumulation rate often indicates a vehicle used for short urban trips or one that has spent significant periods stationary. Mechanically, this usage pattern can lead to the premature corrosion of components like brake discs and coil springs due to a lack of heat cycles and prolonged exposure to moisture, which aligns with the advisories noted in the 2024 and 2025 records. Attention should be directed toward the braking system, specifically checking for the persistence of the pitting and scoring mentioned in the 2024 and 2025 advisories. During a test drive, listen for any grinding or scraping noises during deceleration and feel for pedal judder, which can indicate warped or heavily scored discs. Ensure the brake pedal feel is firm and consistent, as the previous flags for thinning pads across both axles suggest the system may be nearing a replacement interval. The nearside rear coil spring was specifically flagged for corrosion in June 2025. While the October 2025 test was clean, the structural integrity of the spring should be visually verified to ensure no further degradation has occurred. On the road, listen for any metallic knocks or clunks when traversing speed bumps or uneven surfaces, as corroded springs are prone to sudden failure. A thorough inspection of the underbody for similar surface corrosion on other suspension linkages is advised.