2013 Renault Scenic 1.5L Diesel · SC62 WPL

The most recent MOT test on 2026-06-15 resulted in a clean pass, marking the vehicle’s most recent inspection without any recorded defects. However, the overall maintenance trend reveals a critical incident from 2024-07-12 where the nearside rear coil spring fractured, necessitating immediate replacement. This failure, classified as a major defect under 5.3.1 (b) (i), indicates a structural component failure that could compromise ride quality and handling stability if not addressed promptly. While subsequent MOTs from 2023 onward have been clean, the presence of a single, severe mechanical failure—particularly at this age and mileage—suggests either a poorly maintained vehicle or an underlying issue with suspension longevity. The fact that the spring failure was not caught in earlier inspections raises questions about the vehicle’s historical maintenance history, especially given the low mileage. This history should prompt the buyer to prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection to assess the condition of remaining suspension components, such as the offside rear coil spring, bushings, and strut assemblies, as wear or fatigue could recur. The recorded mileage of 38,747 miles for a 2013 Renault Scénic represents a relatively low annual usage rate of approximately 2,981 miles per year, which is unusual for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage often correlates with prolonged periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods without regular movement. This can lead to specific issues such as corrosion from standing fluid leaks, particularly in the brake system, exhaust components, and underbody areas where moisture and debris accumulate. Additionally, low-mileage vehicles may suffer from calendar-based degradation of fluids, such as brake fluid, coolant, and differential fluid, which can harden or become contaminated over time, even if the vehicle has been driven infrequently. The suspension system, while not heavily stressed by mileage, may still experience wear from prolonged standing, such as binding calipers or warped brake discs, which can cause performance issues during acceleration or braking. Given the critical coil spring failure from 2024 and the low-mileage usage profile, the buyer should conduct a meticulous mechanical inspection before purchase. Focus on the rear suspension, particularly the offside coil spring, struts, and associated bushings, as these components may exhibit signs of fatigue or premature wear. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the rear axle area, which could indicate loose suspension mounts or worn bushings. Inspect the brake system for uneven wear on the rear discs or calipers that appear binding or seized, which may suggest corrosion or prolonged inactivity-related issues. The brake fluid reservoir should be checked for contamination or sludge, and the brake master cylinder should be tested for leaks or sponginess when the pedal is depressed. Additionally, verify the condition of the exhaust system, checking for rust or cracks that could lead to emissions failures or leaks, as corrosion is more likely in a low-mileage vehicle that has been stationary for extended periods. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the buyer should also perform a comprehensive physical inspection of the undercarriage, focusing on areas prone to corrosion, such as the wheel arches, subframe, and exhaust manifolds. Look for signs of rust or pitting, particularly around the rear wheels and under the vehicle, as standing water and road debris can accelerate corrosion. The 12V battery should be tested for charge capacity and terminal cleanliness, as low-mileage vehicles may experience battery drain from parasitic loads or prolonged disuse. Inspect the tyres for sidewall perishing, which can occur even with low mileage if the vehicle has been stored for years without rotation or rotation services. Check the tyre tread depth and for any signs of uneven wear patterns that could indicate suspension or alignment issues. Finally, ensure that service records are up to date, particularly for fluid changes, as the last MOT suggests the vehicle may have been neglected in critical areas like the suspension and brake systems. If possible, obtain a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic to confirm the absence of hidden mechanical or electrical issues, especially given the history of the rear coil spring failure.