2008 Renault Grand Modus 1.6L Petrol · ST08 LEU

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2008 Renault Grand Modus, conducted on 30 November 2021, resulted in a PASS, though it was accompanied by several minor defects and a single advisory. The most recent inspection recorded a damaged windscreen not affecting the driver's view, a slightly damaged offside obligatory mirror, an offside front lower suspension arm ball joint dust cover severely deteriorated, and an advisory for an oil leak not deemed excessive. Looking at the broader trend, the 2017 and 2018 tests were passed with no defects recorded, but issues began to emerge from 2019 onwards, including a broken offside front coil spring failure in 2017, anti-roll bar linkage play and dust cover issues, seat belt buckle concerns, and front tyre wear advisories. This suggests a gradually worsening pattern of component degradation, particularly around the front suspension and undercarriage, which is typical of an ageing supermini encountering the cumulative effects of road wear and standing periods. The recorded mileage of 100,994 miles over roughly 18 years equates to an annual average of approximately 5,611 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. Such low usage implies the car has likely spent considerable periods standing, either unused or used only for short trips, both of which can be detrimental to mechanical health. Extended standing periods encourage corrosion of brake discs and callipers, deterioration of rubber components such as bushes, hoses, and gaiters, degradation of brake fluid and coolant due to moisture absorption, and sulphation of the 12V battery. Conversely, predominantly short-trip usage prevents the engine and exhaust system from reaching optimal operating temperature, leading to oil dilution, moisture build-up in the oil, and accelerated wear of components such as the timing chain, catalytic converter, and turbocharger if equipped. Any prospective buyer should establish the nature of the prior use and check service records for evidence of regular longer runs. Given the recurring advisories relating to oil leaks noted across multiple tests, it would be prudent to thoroughly inspect the engine bay for fresh oil residue around the cam cover gasket, sump plug, and Renault's known problematic areas such as the oil filler area. A low-mileage vehicle of this age is also at high risk of age-related deterioration that may not be reflected in the MOT record. Inspect all tyres, including the spare, for sidewall perishing and cracking caused by UV exposure, as tyres older than six years should be replaced regardless of tread depth. Examine the brake discs for severe corrosion, lipping, and any seizure of the caliper sliders, and listen for binding or dragging after the vehicle has been driven. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as batteries in low-use vehicles frequently fail without warning, and all fluids including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid should be checked for condition and replaced if their service intervals are unknown or overdue. On a test drive, pay close attention to the front suspension, as the history indicates worn anti-roll bar linkage ball joints, deteriorated ball joint dust covers, and a previously broken offside front coil spring. Listen for clonks or knocks over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and feel for vagueness or wandering in the steering, which would suggest worn bushes or top mount deterioration. Inspect the underside of the vehicle on a ramp for corrosion to the subframe, suspension arms, and brake lines, all of which are common failure points on older Renaults, particularly those that have spent time exposed to winter road salt. Verify that all electrical items function correctly, particularly the headlamps, registration plate lamps, and seat belt buckles, given the history of intermittent electrical defects. Finally, ensure the service book is present and stamped, or that there is clear evidence of timely servicing, as a well-documented history is especially important for a low-mileage vehicle where component degradation is more closely linked to time than to distance travelled.