RENAULT CLIO2001 · 1.1L PETROL

The 2018 MOT failure highlights significant safety and structural concerns for this 2001 Renault Clio. The vehicle failed due to multiple critical issues, including cracked and perished tyres, severe suspension component wear (fractured coil springs, worn anti-roll bar bushes, and a shock absorber with a serious fluid leak), and a major exhaust leak affecting emissions. The nearside front tyre was also worn close to the legal limit, and several lighting systems failed, including headlamps and stop lamps. These issues indicate a high risk of mechanical failure and compromised safety. Recurring problems include tyre degradation (cracked, perished, or worn tyres) and corrosion on brake pipes, which were noted in MOTs from 2015 to 2018. The 2018 failure also revealed a defective exhaust mounting and a Lambda reading outside specified limits, suggesting long-term neglect of emissions systems. While earlier MOTs (2015–2017) showed minor issues like worn exhaust mounts or slight brake pipe corrosion, the 2018 failure represents a clear escalation in severity, particularly with suspension and exhaust components. This suggests a worsening trend in the vehicle’s mechanical condition. The recorded mileage of 110,557 miles for a 25-year-old vehicle averages 4,422 miles per year, which is unusually low. This could indicate light use or prolonged periods of inactivity, both of which may contribute to tyre perishing, corrosion, and component stiffness.