2006 Renault Clio 1.4L Petrol · BN06 FWS

The most recent MOT on 2 March 2026 was a clean pass, following a failure recorded just a few days earlier on 26 February 2026 for a fractured near‑side front coil spring. The swift rectification and subsequent pass indicate that the current owner has responded promptly to a serious safety defect, and the overall trend across the five‑year MOT record – three passes with only one isolated failure and a single advisory – suggests a maintenance pattern that is stabilising rather than deteriorating. At 58,918 miles the car averages just under 3,000 miles per year, which is considerably below the typical usage for a 20‑year‑old vehicle. Such low annual mileage often points to periods of infrequent use or extended storage, which can be as much a concern as high mileage because components may suffer from age‑related degradation despite limited wear. The modest mileage does reduce the likelihood of wear on items such as clutch discs, timing belts or engine bearings, but it also raises the possibility of rubber hardening, corrosion in hidden areas and battery electrolyte loss from prolonged inactivity. When you inspect the vehicle, pay particular attention to the repaired front suspension. Verify that the new coil spring is correctly fitted, that the mounting points and associated anti‑roll bar bushings show no signs of cracking or excessive play, and listen for any clunk or thump when the steering wheel is turned at low speed or when the car is driven over a speed bump. The rear seat‑belt buckle was noted as slightly damaged in 2024; ensure the buckle latches securely and that the webbing does not fray, as a compromised restraint could become a safety issue. During a short test drive, watch for uneven tyre wear that might hint at lingering alignment or suspension problems, and feel for any vibration or shudder through the steering column that could indicate a lingering fault in the front suspension or steering rack. Given the vehicle’s age, conduct a thorough visual and tactile survey of age‑related items. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or hardening, especially if the car has been stored for long periods, and confirm that tread depth remains within legal limits. Test the 12‑volt battery’s voltage and cranking performance, as batteries lose capacity after several years of idle storage. Inspect the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or glazing, and check that the calipers move freely without binding; a light brake pedal or pulsation at higher speeds can signal disc corrosion or caliper stickiness. Finally, confirm that all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been changed according to the manufacturer’s calendar intervals, as time‑based fluid degradation can occur even with low mileage. A complete service book with stamps for these items will give you confidence that the car has been maintained in line with its chronological age.