2002 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · AU02 VPX

The most recent MOT, conducted on 13 April 2023 at 92,104 miles, resulted in a pass, but the record reveals a maintenance trend that is broadly stable rather than improving. The tester still flagged a persistent oil leak, a slightly distorted nearside rear wheel, and badly deteriorated rear tyres. These advisories carried over directly from the failed test two days prior on 11 April 2023, indicating the owner addressed only the immediate failure points, such as the fractured rear coil springs and the major exhaust leak, without rectifying the underlying wear items. The vehicle has not been tested since, meaning its current roadworthiness relies entirely on work completed over three years ago. The mileage pattern raises questions about how this car has been used. Between the 2021 test at 77,435 miles and the 2022 test at 80,753 miles, the Clio covered roughly 3,318 miles in just under a year. However, between the May 2022 pass at 80,753 miles and the April 2023 test at 92,104 miles, the odometer jumped by 11,351 miles in approximately eleven months. This sudden spike is significant. It suggests a period of heavier use following a time of lighter running, yet the 2023 advisories show the rear tyres and wheel were already deteriorating despite this relatively low annual average of around 3,838 miles over the vehicle's twenty-four-year life. A buyer should inspect the rear suspension and chassis carefully. The 2022 test identified corrosion on the offside rear coil spring mounting and a corroded rear brake pipe, while both rear coil springs were fractured in 2023. Even though the springs were replaced to secure the recent pass, the original corrosion advisories suggest the underbody may have been exposed to long-term moisture. Check the rear subframe mounting points, brake lines, and the condition of the replacement springs for early signs of fatigue. The persistent oil leak noted across multiple tests also warrants investigation. It could stem from the engine or gearbox mounts, which were flagged as deteriorated in 2022, potentially leading to drivetrain misalignment if left unresolved. The braking and drivetrain components demand equal attention. Front brake discs were significantly worn in 2022 and the inner faces were scored in 2021, pointing to a pattern of deferred brake servicing. The nearside front Macpherson strut pin and bush were worn in both 2021 and 2022, and the offside front shock absorber was misting oil. These suspension items degrade gradually, so expect the ride quality and tyre wear to reflect years of uneven damping. Test the ABS system thoroughly, as the warning lamp was illuminated during the 2023 failure. Given the three-year gap since the last inspection, a fresh MOT or a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection is strongly advisable before committing to this vehicle.