2014 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · MV64 ABX

The most recent MOT on 17 April 2026 was a clean pass with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle now meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the preceding three years the record shows a mixed picture: a failure in July 2024 for rear stop‑lamp illumination, TPMS inoperability and a rear tyre close to the legal limit, followed by a series of advisories in 2024 and 2025 concerning suspension ball‑joint play, corrosion on the front radiator support, a split shock‑absorber cover and worn wiper blades. The absence of any failures or new advisories at the latest test suggests the owner has addressed the most serious issues and the overall maintenance trend is moving towards stability, though a few lingering wear items remain. At 103,074 miles the car has averaged roughly 8,600 miles per year since its 2014 build, which is within the normal range for a small family hatchback. The mileage does not point to excessive high‑speed use, but the relatively modest annual distance also hints that the vehicle may have experienced periods of low utilisation or extended storage. Such standing can accelerate age‑related deterioration of rubber components, corrosion of under‑tray and chassis areas, and battery sulphation, all of which should be inspected regardless of the mileage figure. When you examine the car, give particular attention to the nearside front ball joint that was noted as having slight play. On a drive, feel for any looseness or clunking when steering through corners and check for uneven tyre wear that could indicate a developing joint fault. Verify that the rear stop lamp now operates correctly and that the TPMS sensors are functional; a non‑functioning system often manifests as intermittent warning lights on the dashboard. Inspect the rear tyre that was previously close to the legal limit for tread depth, side‑wall condition and any cupping that could signal suspension or alignment issues. The undertrays were reported as corroded, so look for any rust‑spotted panels or compromised mounting points that could affect exhaust routing or under‑body protection. The split front shock‑absorber cover should be examined for any leaking fluid or degraded bushings, and the wiper blades should be replaced if they show cracking or reduced contact. Beyond the items flagged in the MOT history, an 12‑year‑old vehicle warrants a thorough age‑related check. Examine all tyre sidewalls for cracking or dry‑rot, especially if the car has spent time stationary, and confirm that the tyre pressures hold steady. Test the 12‑V battery voltage and assess its ability to hold charge, as prolonged inactivity can reduce capacity. Look for signs of brake disc corrosion or seized caliper pistons, particularly if the car has been parked for long periods; any pulsation or shudder under braking should be noted. Finally, verify that the service book contains regular oil, filter and coolant changes, and consider a fresh change of engine oil, coolant and brake fluid if the last recorded service predates the most recent MOT by more than twelve months. These checks will give you a realistic picture of the car’s mechanical health and any imminent maintenance it may require.