2016 Renault Kadjar 1.5L Diesel · SC16 YAJ

The 2016 Renault Kadjar shows a concerning maintenance trend characterized by recurring failures in critical safety systems, particularly within the suspension and braking assemblies. While the vehicle successfully passed its most recent MOT in April 2026, the history reveals a pattern of repeated failures for coil springs, suspension ball joints, and brake components over the last few years. This suggests that the vehicle has been subjected to significant road stress or potentially poor-quality replacement parts, as evidenced by the multiple instances of fractured springs and worn ball joints appearing in close succession. A pass result indicates the vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the frequency of major defects suggests a high likelihood of impending repairs as the vehicle continues to age. With 91,147 miles covered over ten years, the vehicle has maintained a consistent annual usage rate of approximately 9,100 miles, which is typical for a family SUV of this age. This mileage is neither exceptionally high nor low, meaning the drivetrain has likely been subjected to standard wear and tear rather than the specific issues associated with prolonged periods of standing or extreme high-mileage motorway use. However, the consistent failure points in the suspension and steering geometry suggest that the vehicle has likely been operated on poor road surfaces, which accelerates the degradation of bushings, joints, and shock absorbers. Prospective buyers should view this mileage as a baseline for significant component fatigue, particularly regarding the chassis and undercarriage. During your test drive, you must pay close attention to the suspension and steering response. Given the history of fractured coil springs and worn ball joints, listen for any clunking, knocking, or rattling noises when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as these are primary indicators of failing suspension components or worn track rod ends. Furthermore, since the rear brake discs were flagged as worn in the most recent test, check for any grinding sensations or vibrations through the brake pedal during deceleration. Ensure the vehicle tracks straight on a flat road without pulling to either side, which would suggest lingering alignment issues or uneven wear in the steering rack and suspension arms. Beyond the test drive, perform a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle. Inspect the rear brake discs for visible scoring or a significant lip on the outer edge, as these will require replacement in the near future. Check the condition of all tyres for uneven wear patterns, which often point to unresolved suspension geometry problems. Given the history of engine malfunction indicator light failures, it is essential to verify that the dashboard lights perform a self-check upon ignition and that no warning lamps remain illuminated after the engine starts. Finally, request comprehensive service documentation to confirm that essential maintenance, such as brake fluid changes and suspension component replacements, has been carried out by qualified technicians rather than through temporary, short-term fixes.