2014 Renault Scenic 1.5L Diesel · SF14 DSW

The Renault Scenic’s most recent MOT, conducted just four months ago on 25 March 2026, reveals a vehicle that remains technically roadworthy but operates on the edge of several critical failings. The nearside rear tyre was recorded as worn close to the legal limit, while the ABS sensor wiring and a loose track rod ball joint—both indicative of neglected servicing—demonstrate a pattern of deferred maintenance. The failure just a day prior on 24 March 2026, triggered by the same tyre issue and the worsening condition of the track rod end, confirms a trend of deferred attention to suspension and tyre integrity. While the vehicle passed in February 2025, the recurring advisories on brake discs and binding calipers suggest a broader issue with the braking system that has not been addressed comprehensively. The mileage history underscores a consistent and unusually high annual average of approximately 12,600 miles, which for a vehicle of this age and model class is aggressive. Between February 2023 and February 2024, the odometer advanced by 6,714 miles in just over a year, a rate that accelerates wear on suspension components, brake hardware, and drivetrain. Notably, there is a 10-month gap between the 2024 and 2025 MOTs, during which the mileage increased by 5,381 miles—a period where critical components like the track rod ends and brake discs may have deteriorated further without intervention. The absence of any advisory or defect in the 2024 test suggests either a brief period of diligent maintenance or a temporary improvement in driving conditions, but the subsequent failures invalidate the latter. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the suspension geometry, particularly the track rod ends and bushings, given their repeated flagging in both 2023 and 2026. The binding front brake caliper from February 2025 warrants verification of hydraulic fluid condition and caliper piston operation, as prolonged binding can lead to uneven disc wear and eventual failure. Tyres remain a critical concern; the near and offside front tyres have been recorded as worn close to the legal limit in three separate tests, indicating either repeated neglect or aggressive driving. Structural integrity should also be assessed, with attention to the subframe and wheel arches for corrosion, as high mileage and potential exposure to road salt could compromise these areas over time. The ABS sensor wiring fault, while not immediately dangerous, signals a lack of attention to electrical connections that could escalate into more serious issues.