2002 Renault Kangoo 1.5L Diesel · VN52 AHK

Recurring issues with tyre wear and suspension component degradation characterise the mechanical profile of this Renault Kangoo, culminating in a failure during its most recent test on 09 May 2025. The inspection history shows a persistent pattern of advisories regarding anti-roll bar linkage pins and bushes, which have appeared in various forms since at least March 2022. This trend of suspension wear, combined with a failure in April 2023 due to mismatched tyre sizes on the rear axle and repeated advisories for tyres reaching legal limits, suggests a history of uneven component wear and inconsistent tyre maintenance. The vehicle has covered 113,881 miles over its 24-year lifespan, representing an average annual accumulation of approximately 4,745 miles. This is a relatively low mileage profile for a vehicle of this age, which can sometimes imply longer periods of inactivity or limited use. While lower cumulative mileage may suggest less overall wear on the drivetrain, the recorded history of tyre edge wear and suspension bushing issues can sometimes be associated with the effects of infrequent use or driving on specific road surfaces that stress the steering and suspension geometry. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the front suspension during a test drive, specifically looking for any knocking or clunking noises when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which would indicate that the previously advised anti-roll bar linkage pins and bushes have progressed from minor wear to significant failure. Additionally, the advisory from May 2024 regarding a minor exhaust gas leak at the front should be investigated; listen for any increased engine noise or audible hissing from the engine bay or undercarriage, particularly during acceleration, as this could indicate a worsening exhaust manifold or pipe defect. Tyre condition and alignment also require scrutiny. Given the repeated advisories for tyres being worn on the edges and the previous failure for mismatched axle tyres, it is essential to inspect the current tread depth and ensure all four tyres are of the same specification and brand on each axle. Check for any uneven wear patterns on the sidewalls or inner edges, which could signal underlying issues with wheel alignment or steering geometry that have not been fully rectified. Finally, ensure the nearside registration plate lamp is functional, as this was noted as inoperative during the 2025 inspection.