2005 Renault Master Diesel · SY55 AXZ

The Renault Master’s most recent MOT test on 31 March 2025 at 116,443 miles confirms it remains roadworthy, with no defects or advisories recorded across the last four tests. This suggests a stable maintenance pattern, though the January 2023 failure—despite zero recorded defects—stands out as an anomaly. The vehicle has not been tested since March 2025, meaning it is now over 14 months out of date, which is concerning for a vehicle of this age and mileage. While the absence of defects in recent tests implies no obvious mechanical failures, the lack of a recent inspection means critical components may have deteriorated beyond the tester’s scope. The recorded mileage of 116,443 miles over 21 years equates to approximately 5,545 miles annually, which is unusually low for a commercial van of this era. The gap between the 2022 and 2023 tests—just 2,697 miles in 12 months—followed by a near-immediate retest in January 2023 suggests the vehicle may have been stationary for an extended period. This could indicate neglect, as prolonged inactivity accelerates corrosion and degradation of suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake components. The lack of mileage progression between tests also raises questions about whether the vehicle was actively used or simply stored. Given the clean MOT history but the vehicle’s age and the 14-month gap since the last test, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of suspension integrity, particularly the rear axle and coil springs, which are prone to fatigue in vans of this age. The brakes—though never flagged—should be closely examined for uneven wear or binding calipers, as the 2023 failure without defects suggests a potential oversight in previous tests. Structural corrosion, especially around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, must be assessed, as rust can compromise load-bearing capacity. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions controls should be checked, as these are common failure points in older diesel vans and were not explicitly cleared in the records.