2016 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · AV66 FSK

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Renault Clio, conducted on 2026-03-24, resulted in a passing grade with a single minor failure noted under section 6.1.7 (g) (i), specifically the severe deterioration of the offside front constant velocity (CV) boot. This marks a deviation from the previous five MOT tests, which all returned clean results, indicating a potential area of concern that has not been addressed or rectified. While the vehicle remains roadworthy, the presence of this failure suggests a need for proactive maintenance to prevent further damage to the differential and transmission components, which could lead to increased wear or catastrophic failure if left unresolved. The advisory from 2019 regarding the near and offside front brake discs—described as worn, pitted, or scored but not seriously weakened—remains unresolved, which is a recurring issue that should be addressed promptly to avoid reduced braking performance or premature disc replacement. The recorded mileage of 68,978 miles for a vehicle of this age represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,898 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of its class and typical UK driving conditions. This level of mileage does not necessarily indicate excessive wear, as many vehicles of this age accumulate far more miles, particularly those in commercial or high-traffic use. However, the presence of the CV boot failure and the persistent brake disc advisories may suggest that the vehicle has undergone periods of either higher-than-average usage or prolonged idling, which can accelerate component wear. The absence of significant mileage gaps does not necessarily imply neglect, but it does warrant closer attention to fluid condition, suspension integrity, and brake system maintenance, as standing or infrequent use can exacerbate issues like corrosion in brake components or fluid degradation over time. For the prospective buyer, the most critical immediate inspection should focus on the front CV joint assembly, particularly the CV boot, which has failed the MOT. Visually inspect the boot for signs of cracking, tears, or oil ingress, which would confirm the presence of internal wear or contamination. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the offside front axle, such as a grinding or clunking sound during acceleration or cornering, which could indicate a failing CV joint or boot. The brake discs from the 2019 advisory should also be thoroughly examined. Check for uneven wear patterns, excessive thickness reduction, or signs of glazing or scoring, which may suggest underlying issues like warping or binding calipers. During the inspection, ensure the brake fluid reservoir is clean and free of contamination, as low fluid levels or fluid degradation can lead to reduced braking efficiency. Additionally, verify that the brake pads are not excessively worn or glazed, which could indicate a need for pad replacement. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and fluid components. Given the age and mileage, pay particular attention to the condition of the tyres, checking for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety. Inspect the suspension for signs of wear, such as cracked or swollen coil springs, worn suspension bushes, or excessive play in the struts. The battery should be tested for capacity and cleanliness, as older vehicles are more susceptible to corrosion and poor performance. Finally, consider the calendar-based servicing of fluids, including the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and differential fluid, as these can degrade over time regardless of mileage. Ensure that the service history is up to date, particularly for the CV joint boot replacement and brake system servicing, to mitigate future mechanical issues. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, additional checks for corrosion on the exhaust system, undercarriage, and electrical connections are essential to prevent long-term damage.