2014 Renault Kangoo 1.5L Diesel · SY14 VMH

The most recent MOT test for this 2014 Renault Kangoo was conducted on 2022-01-27 and resulted in a clean pass, marking a significant improvement over the previous two years. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of critical failures in 2022, specifically the nearside and offside rear coil springs fracturing, which would have rendered the vehicle unsafe for road use if unaddressed. However, the absence of defects in the latest test suggests that these issues have been rectified, and the vehicle has since maintained a stable roadworthiness status. While the 2020 and 2019 MOTs show persistent advisories—particularly around brake disc wear, corrosion in the brake pipes, and minor suspension issues—these have not escalated to major failures, indicating that the vehicle’s maintenance has been proactive but not without recurring wear-related concerns. The recorded mileage of 87,055 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 12 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 7,255 miles, which is typical for its class and age. This level of mileage does not suggest excessive wear beyond what is expected from normal operation, though it does imply that the vehicle has been driven regularly rather than left in a stationary state for prolonged periods. A key consideration is whether the mileage accumulation was gradual or if there were significant gaps between service intervals, as standing vehicles can accelerate corrosion in brake systems, fluid degradation in hydraulic components, and the deterioration of rubber seals and gaskets. The absence of high-mileage indicators such as excessive tyre wear patterns or unusual drivetrain noise would support a stable maintenance routine. Given the recurring advisories in the MOT history—particularly the consistent brake disc wear, corrosion in the brake pipes, and minor suspension issues—it is essential for the prospective buyer to conduct a thorough physical inspection. Focus on the brake system first: check for uneven or excessive brake pad wear, which may indicate misalignment or binding calipers; listen for grinding noises when braking, which could signal disc warping or metal-on-metal contact; and inspect the brake pipes for signs of leakage or further corrosion, as this could lead to hydraulic failure. During a test drive, note any brake shudder, pulsation, or reduced stopping performance, which may correlate with warped discs or warped spring plates. Additionally, verify that the coil springs are firm and free from sagging or excessive play, and inspect the suspension bushings for signs of cracking or excessive wear, which could lead to clunking noises when driving over bumps. For the suspension and steering components, the advisories around track rod end ball joint play and the near-side front wheel distortion warrant attention. On inspection, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues; listen for clunking or rattling noises when driving over rough roads, particularly around the suspension joints; and ensure there is no excessive play in the steering wheel when turning, as this could signal worn steering components. The presence of nail damage in the tyres noted in 2019 suggests that the vehicle has experienced some road debris impact, which could have contributed to tyre wear or internal damage. Finally, address the battery health and fluid servicing: given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery may be nearing the end of its service life, and the engine oil and coolant should be checked for signs of degradation, such as sludge buildup or discolouration, which can occur even with regular mileage if fluids were not changed at the recommended intervals. Prioritise a service history check to confirm that time-based maintenance, such as fluid replacements, has been conducted, as this is critical for preventing hidden wear and failure modes in a vehicle of this age.