2018 Renault Grand Scenic 1.6L Diesel · SC18 LCX

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2018 Renault Grand Scenic took place on 2026-05-18 and resulted in a passing grade, though it came with several critical advisories that warrant careful consideration. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly in the braking system, tyre condition, and suspension components, with a notable failure in 2024-05-13 that included dangerous defects such as front tyre ply damage and tread depth below the legal minimum. While the 2025 tests were clean, the vehicle’s MOT record suggests a trend of wear-related problems persisting over time, especially concerning the front brakes and suspension ball joints, which were flagged as excessively worn in 2026. The presence of multiple advisories—such as thin brake pads and worn tyres—indicates that the vehicle has not been fully serviced or maintained at the recommended intervals, which could escalate into more serious failures if left unaddressed. The recorded mileage of 48,448 miles for an eight-year-old vehicle represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,056 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for this age group. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit evidence of rapid mileage accumulation, suggesting that the vehicle may have been driven at a steady pace rather than subjected to excessive wear from high-mileage activity. That said, the combination of age and mileage means the car’s suspension, brakes, and tyres have experienced significant exposure to stress, particularly given the repeated advisories on brake pad thickness and tyre integrity. The potential for standing corrosion—such as on brake components or the vehicle’s undercarriage—should also be factored in, especially if the car has been parked for extended periods without regular movement. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front braking system and suspension, as these have been the primary sources of MOT failures. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front suspension, such as clunks or rattles when driving over bumps, which may indicate worn anti-roll bar linkages or suspension bushes. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the front tyres, which could signal misalignment or steering issues. Inspect the brake pads and discs for signs of excessive heat damage, pitting, or binding, which may suggest overheating or poor braking performance. The offside rear brake pads were flagged as thin in multiple MOTs, so ensure they are fully functional and not causing any drag or vibration when braking. Additionally, verify that all stop lamps, including the near- and offside rear lamps, are operational, as previous failures in this area could lead to recurring issues. Beyond the mechanical checks, consider a thorough visual inspection of the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken their structural integrity over time, especially in a vehicle of this age. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the 12V battery is holding a charge, as older vehicles may suffer from age-related battery degradation. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or excessive noise, which could indicate wear in the catalytic converter or muffler. Since the vehicle has been driven at a moderate rate, fluid servicing should be prioritised based on manufacturer recommendations—particularly the brake fluid, which can degrade over time and absorb moisture, leading to corrosion in the braking system. If possible, review the service history to confirm that scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes and suspension servicing, has been completed. Finally, given the presence of tyre cuts and ply damage, a professional tyre inspection is advisable to assess whether any repairs or replacements are necessary before purchase.