2018 Renault Koleos 2.0L Diesel · RO68 LCC

The most recent MOT test for this 2018 Renault Koleos was conducted on 2025-10-06 and resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive deviation from the vehicle’s previous history. However, the trend over the past three years is not entirely reassuring, with two failures and multiple advisories indicating recurring issues that have not been fully resolved. The 2024-09-24 failure highlighted critical mechanical failures, including excessive wear in the near-side front lower suspension arm pin or bush and binding in the inner steering rack, both of which are indicative of long-term neglect or high-stress usage patterns. While the 2025 test passed, the presence of advisories from the 2024-10-04 MOT—such as the offside front tyres approaching legal limits and the steering rack free play—suggests that these issues may persist or have only been partially addressed. The vehicle’s roadworthiness remains compromised by unresolved wear and potential fluid degradation, warranting careful inspection before purchase. The recorded mileage of 52,877 miles for a vehicle aged eight years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,610 miles, which is within the expected range for this model’s age and typical UK driving conditions. However, the mileage data does not fully account for periods of inactivity, which can exacerbate wear in stationary components such as brakes, suspension bushes, and steering systems. The 2024 failure, in particular, suggests that the vehicle may have been subjected to higher-than-average stress, potentially due to prolonged standing with corroded components or excessive load. For a suspension system with a major failure in the lower arm pin or bush, even brief idling can accelerate wear, leading to clunking noises during cornering or uneven ride quality. The brake pads failing to the legal minimum thickness at 1.5mm further implies that the vehicle has been driven with inadequate braking performance, which could have contributed to accelerated wear in other components. As a prospective buyer, this Koleos requires a thorough mechanical inspection to confirm the resolution of the MOT failures and advisories. Focus on the near-side front suspension, particularly the lower arm and steering rack, for signs of residual wear, binding, or corrosion. Listen for clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps or at low speeds, as these may indicate loose or degraded suspension bushes. The steering wheel should be checked for excessive play or resistance, and the vehicle should be tested for handling stability—sudden pull to one side during cornering could suggest steering rack binding. Additionally, verify the brake system by assessing pedal firmness, checking for pulsation or vibration, and inspecting the near-side front discs for scoring, warping, or uneven wear. The brake fluid level must be topped up to avoid further degradation, and the fluid should be replaced if it appears dark or contaminated. Beyond the mechanical checks, the vehicle’s age and mileage necessitate attention to several age-related and usage-dependent issues. Given the tyres were flagged as worn close to legal limits in two MOTs, a full inspection is critical—look for sidewall cracking, perishing, or uneven tread wear, which could indicate underinflation or poor alignment. The near-side rear tyre also approached the legal limit, so prioritise replacing these before they reach the minimum tread depth, as worn tyres compromise traction and safety. The rear heat shield being insecure in multiple MOTs suggests a risk of exhaust gas leakage, which can lead to overheating or even fire hazards; ensure it is securely fastened. The battery should be tested for voltage and corrosion, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing corrosion can lead to poor cold-start performance. Finally, since the vehicle has not had a service record confirmed, check for calendar-based fluid servicing—oil, brake, and coolant should be replaced every two years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first, to prevent sludge buildup, corrosion, and engine or hydraulic system failure.