2014 Renault Captur 1.5L Diesel · SY14 XNR

The vehicle holds a valid MOT certificate issued on 10 December 2025, yet the maintenance trend is clearly worsening. That same day produced both a fail and a pass, revealing a pattern of reactive rather than preventative work. The tester flagged a binding nearside front caliper, excessive play in the nearside front track rod end, and a split offside front CV boot. The rear shock absorber has been weeping oil since at least December 2025, and that advisory carried over from the failed attempt into the subsequent pass. These are not trivial consumable items. Binding brakes generate excessive heat, warp discs, and strain the hub assembly. A worn track rod end introduces vagueness in steering and accelerates front tyre wear. A split CV boot allows grease to escape and grit to enter, meaning the joint is likely already compromised and a replacement axle or boot rebuild will be needed imminently. The mileage progression is broadly consistent with typical use for a 2014 vehicle, rising from 45,272 miles in December 2022 to 87,045 miles by December 2025. That equates to roughly 14,000 miles per year over the last three years, a step up from the earlier average of around 7,254 miles annually. The jump suggests a change of owner or usage pattern, possibly longer commutes or motorway work, which places greater stress on braking and suspension components. The MOT record itself is relatively sparse, with only five tests logged across the vehicle's life, but the recent cluster of faults in December 2025 is telling. A buyer should pay close attention to the front suspension and steering. The track rod end play and binding caliper both appeared on the same test date, suggesting the vehicle may have been driven in a compromised state for some time. Inspect the inner front brake discs for scoring and lipping, as these have been flagged as worn and pitted in both 2022 and 2023, and verify whether they were replaced before the 2025 test. The rear shock absorber misting is an early-stage failure, but if left unaddressed it will degrade damping and affect tyre contact, particularly over uneven surfaces. The split CV boot demands immediate attention; if the joint clicks under load, the entire driveshaft assembly may need replacing. Beyond the MOT flags, check the subframe and inner wing arches for corrosion, as the Captur of this era is prone to surface and structural rust in those areas, particularly if it has spent time in salted road conditions.