2007 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · WD07 AEL

A recurring theme across the MOT record is the persistent tyre condition advisories, with near‑side front, near‑side rear and off‑side rear tyres repeatedly flagged as slightly damaged, cracking or perishing from 2023 through the latest test in September 2026, where the only noted issue was a near‑side front tyre advisory. Apart from these tyre warnings, the car has also shown intermittent lighting faults—headlamp, stop lamp and registration‑plate lamp failures—culminating in a single major brake‑lever restriction in 2022 that was subsequently rectified, allowing the vehicle to pass thereafter. The overall trend shows a shift from occasional failures to a current pattern of advisory‑only findings, indicating that the major safety‑critical defects have been addressed but tyre degradation remains an ongoing concern. With 77,192 mi recorded on a 2007 model, the average annual accumulation is roughly 4,000 mi, well below the typical usage for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage often points to prolonged periods of inactivity, which can accelerate rubber ageing and contribute to the observed tyre cracking. The consistent yearly MOT schedule suggests the vehicle has been regularly inspected, but the modest mileage does not preclude age‑related wear on suspension bushings, engine mounts and other rubber components that deteriorate with time as much as with distance. Prospective buyers should give the tyre condition immediate attention: inspect tread depth, sidewall integrity and look for any bulges or exposed cords on the near‑side front, near‑side rear and off‑side rear tyres, and be prepared to replace them if they fail to meet the legal 1.6 mm tread minimum. Verify that all external lighting functions correctly—headlamp on dipped beam, stop lamps, direction indicators and both registration‑plate lamps—by switching each on and confirming illumination, as repeated MOT failures in these areas have been recorded. The 2022 brake‑lever restriction warrants a functional check of the hand‑brake mechanism; the lever should move freely without binding and the pedal should feel firm without excessive travel or judder. During a test drive, listen for any knocking or clunking over bumps that could indicate worn suspension bushes or deteriorated bushings, and monitor steering for pull to either side, which may reflect ageing steering components. Confirm that the windscreen washer delivers a steady spray and that the near‑side washer reservoir fills correctly, addressing the prior insufficient‑liquid fault. Finally, a visual inspection of the chassis and under‑body for any signs of corrosion, especially around wheel arches and suspension mounting points, will help assess whether age‑related rust could become a future structural issue.