2022 Renault Arkana S Edition TCE Mhev Auto 1.3L Petrol · SD22 NTG

The most recent DVSA examination on 28 August 2026 resulted in a fail with dangerous and major non-compliance items, followed immediately by a retest the next day on 29 August 2026 which returned a pass certificate with no defects recorded. This pattern suggests that the failures identified were rectified shortly after the initial presentation, likely through replacement of the missing or torn offside front wiper blade and the fitting of new tyres across the front axle and the nearside rear position. While the immediate pass is reassuring, the dangerous categorisation for tyre tread depth falling below the statutory 1.6mm minimum indicates the vehicle was being operated with tyres that had reached the absolute legal limit. A prospective buyer should treat the MOT history as broadly stable rather than deteriorating, given that the intervening test in May 2025 also passed without advisories, but the 2026 failure does indicate that consumable maintenance had been deferred to the point where safety-critical items were non-compliant. With a recorded mileage of 51,962 miles over approximately four years, this Arkana is accumulating around 12,990 miles annually, which is notably higher than the typical average for a modern family SUV and places the vehicle firmly in the high-mileage category for its age. This level of use accelerates wear on components such as brake pads and discs, clutch material where applicable, suspension bushes and coil springs, drive belts, and the 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine's ancillary systems. The 12V auxiliary battery fitted to the mild-hybrid system is also subjected to more frequent cycling than in a low-mileage example. High annual mileage does not automatically condemn a vehicle but does mean that a buyer should expect closer-to-due servicing intervals and should budget for items that may approach the end of their functional life sooner than in a lower-mileage equivalent. Given the combination of high annual mileage and the tyre-related dangerous defects recorded, a buyer must prioritise a careful walk-around and under-bonnet inspection prior to purchase. Check the remaining tread depth on all four tyres, ensuring even wear across the tread face which would indicate correct inflation and geometry, and inspect the sidewalls for any perishing, cracking or bulges given that the vehicle is now four years old and may have spent time exposed to UV and weather. Examine the brake discs for lipping, hot spots, or corrosion around the edge which suggests binding calipers or heavy use, and verify that the brake fluid has been changed in line with the manufacturer's calendar interval as brake fluid degrades hygroscopically over time regardless of mileage. Test the operation of both wiper blades and confirm the windscreen washer jets are functioning, and inspect the condition of all other exterior rubbers and seals including door and boot seals for perishing. On a thorough test drive, listen carefully for any clonks or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which could indicate worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, or top mounts, and pay attention to any knocking from the rear suspension given the higher than average wear expectation. Test the mild-hybrid system recovery under braking and ensure smooth transition between the electric assistance and the petrol engine, as any warning lights or hesitation could point to issues with the 12V battery or the hybrid control systems. Check that the automatic transmission shifts smoothly through all gears without juddering or hesitation, and verify the operation of the air conditioning system, which is often neglected until a service is due. Finally, request evidence of a complete service history with stamps or invoices at the correct intervals, particularly the timing chain or belt service for the 1.3 TCE engine, and confirm the vehicle identification number across the V5C, dashboard, and door shut to ensure consistency before committing to the purchase.