2012 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · AF12 LDN

The most recent MOT assessment from February 2025 indicates a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance history reveals a pattern of recurring suspension and steering component degradation. While the vehicle successfully passed after addressing a major failure regarding headlamp aim and excessive play in the offside front track rod end, the presence of multiple advisories suggests that while critical failures are being rectified, the underlying wear in the front-end geometry is progressive. The trend shows a persistent struggle with steering and suspension components, specifically track rod ends, suspension bushes, and coil springs, which indicates that while the car is being kept roadworthy through reactive repairs, it is entering a phase of frequent component replacement. With approximately 139,038 miles recorded over 14 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 9,931 miles per year. This level of usage is consistent with typical UK domestic driving patterns and suggests the car has not been subjected to extreme high-mileage motorway transit nor has it suffered from the detrimental effects of prolonged periods of inactivity. However, at this mileage and age, the mechanical components are subject to significant fatigue. The cumulative wear on the drivetrain, steering rack, and suspension assemblies is commensurate with this mileage, meaning the buyer should expect a higher frequency of consumable part replacements such as dampers, bushes, and braking components. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the front-end handling during a test drive. The recent advisories regarding the offside front coil spring corrosion and the nearside front track rod end play are significant. You should listen for metallic clunking or knocking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which could indicate the corroded spring is nearing structural failure or that the track rod end play has progressed. Furthermore, the history of worn suspension arm bushes and previous steering rack play suggests you should check for any wandering or imprecise steering feel, as well as uneven tyre wear across the front axle, which often results from compromised alignment and worn bushings. The braking system also warrants a thorough inspection. Previous advisories regarding fluctuating brake performance and worn pads and discs suggest that the braking hardware is a recurring maintenance item. During the test drive, apply the brakes firmly to check for any shuddering, pulsation, or pulling to one side, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. Additionally, given the history of ABS warning lamps and injection messages, it is advisable to verify that no warning lights remain illuminated on the dashboard and to check the service history for evidence of regular fluid changes, particularly brake fluid and coolant, to mitigate the effects of age-related degradation and internal corrosion.