2013 Renault Scenic 1.5L Diesel · RO13 LCL

The most recent MOT inspection on 14 July 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle is showing a clear trend of increasing mechanical advisories. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent passing record since 2020, the frequency and nature of the advisory notes have escalated significantly over the last two years. The transition from a clean record in 2023 to multiple advisories regarding tyres, brake discs, and now suspension components suggests that the vehicle is entering a phase of cumulative wear where several maintenance items will require attention in the near future to maintain roadworthiness. With approximately 70,199 miles recorded over 13 years, this Renault Scenic has averaged only about 5,400 miles per year. This is considered very low annual mileage for a vehicle of this age. While low mileage generally implies less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it often indicates long periods of standing or very short, infrequent trips. Such usage patterns can lead to specific issues, such as moisture accumulation in the exhaust system, fluid degradation, and the perishing of rubber components like tyres and suspension bushes due to age rather than distance travelled. The recent advisories regarding the nearside and offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joints indicate developing play in the suspension system. During a test drive, you should listen closely for rhythmic knocking or clunking sounds, particularly when driving over uneven road surfaces or speed bumps, as these symptoms are characteristic of worn ball joints. Furthermore, the history of pitted and scored brake discs, combined with previous failures for binding brakes, suggests that the braking system may be prone to corrosion or sticking due to infrequent use. You should check for any brake shudder during deceleration or a pulling sensation to one side, and verify that the calipers are not binding, which can cause overheating and premature pad wear. Given the low mileage and the specific advisories noted, a thorough physical inspection is essential. The recurring advisories for tyre cracking, perishing, and uneven wear suggest that the rubber is reaching the end of its serviceable life due to age-related degradation. Inspect the sidewalls of all tyres for fine cracks and ensure the tread depth is well above the legal limit across the entire width of the tyre. Additionally, because the vehicle has likely spent significant time stationary, you should check the condition of the 12V battery, inspect all rubber hoses and belts for signs of cracking, and verify that the service history includes regular oil and fluid changes based on time intervals rather than just mileage to prevent internal engine sludge or moisture contamination.