2017 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · AF67 VOY

The most recent MOT test, conducted on 2025-10-02, resulted in a passing grade, with the vehicle presenting a mix of minor defects and advisories that do not affect overall roadworthiness. However, the history reveals a pattern of recurring issues, particularly within the suspension and braking systems, which have persisted or escalated over the past few years. The 2024-09-26 MOT failure highlighted a major defect in the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, indicating significant wear that necessitated repair, while prior advisories—such as slight play in the same joint and front brake pad wear—suggest ongoing degradation. This trend, combined with the 2022 failures and advisories, implies that the vehicle has not received consistent maintenance to address wear progression in critical components, particularly the suspension and braking assemblies. The recorded mileage of 56,990 miles for a 2017 model represents an annual average of approximately 6,332 miles, which is within the expected range for a vehicle of this age and class. While this usage rate is not excessively high, it does not necessarily correlate with rapid wear—especially if the vehicle has spent extended periods stationary, as lower mileage figures might suggest. However, the presence of multiple advisories related to suspension play and brake system imbalances suggests that the suspension components, particularly the lower arms and ball joints, have been subjected to cumulative stress, potentially exacerbated by prolonged standing or uneven loading. The braking system advisories, particularly thin pads and brake imbalance, also warrant attention, as they may indicate underlying issues such as warped discs, binding calipers, or hydraulic system degradation, which can compromise braking performance over time. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive include the suspension system, brakes, and tyre condition. The offside front lower suspension arm ball joint was found to be excessively worn in the 2024 MOT failure, so any signs of excessive play, clunking noises (particularly when driving over bumps or at speed), or uneven suspension travel should be investigated. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling from the front suspension, especially when cornering or over rough roads, as this may indicate further wear in the struts, bushes, or control arms. The front brakes should be checked for even wear on the discs and pads, with particular attention to any signs of binding, grinding, or pulsation, which could suggest warped discs or seized calipers. Test the braking system by applying firm, gradual pressure to ensure consistent stopping power without excessive vibration or shuddering, as this may indicate brake rotor warping or hydraulic issues. Additionally, the tyre advisories from the 2025 MOT—particularly the near and offside front inner tyres worn close to the legal limit—highlight the need for a thorough tyre inspection. Check the tread depth uniformly across all tyres, ensuring none are worn to the legal minimum or showing significant edge wear, which may indicate alignment or suspension issues. Inspect for signs of tyre perishing or cracking, especially on the sidewalls, as the age of the vehicle (nearly nine years) increases the risk of sidewall damage from environmental exposure. The rear tyre was noted to be cracked or perishing, so this should be addressed promptly to prevent blowouts or sudden failure. Furthermore, given the vehicle’s age and the advisories related to standing conditions, inspect the undercarriage for signs of corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, exhaust system, and suspension mounts, as prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate rusting. A quick check of the 12V battery health, including voltage readings and terminal corrosion, is also advisable, as older vehicles may struggle with electrical systems when stationary for extended periods. Lastly, verify that the service history is up to date, particularly for fluid servicing such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the service book is incomplete, consider scheduling a professional inspection to address any time-based maintenance needs.