2018 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · CA68 KRE

This Renault Clio has demonstrated a concerning decline in roadworthiness over the past two years, with the most recent test on 2026-07-07 revealing critical failures despite a passing grade. The vehicle failed on the offside front suspension arm ball joint, which was previously flagged in the 2025-07-18 test, indicating a persistent and unresolved issue. The rear wheel bearings, while noted as "slightly noisy" in both the 2026-07-07 tests, suggest a gradual degradation rather than an immediate failure risk. The pattern of repeated suspension faults—particularly the ball joint—implies either neglect or repeated stopgap repairs, as this component should not fail twice within 18 months without intervention. The latest MOT’s passing status is misleading; the presence of a failed suspension arm and noisy bearings undermines the claim of full roadworthiness. The mileage progression of 60,111 miles at the latest test reflects a steady but typical usage rate for a vehicle of this age, averaging around 7,500 miles annually. There are no abrupt jumps or prolonged periods of inactivity, which would otherwise raise suspicion of hidden wear or neglect. However, the lack of intermediate MOTs between 2024 and 2025—particularly the gap between the 2024-09-12 pass and the 2025-07-18 failure—suggests the vehicle may have been driven without regular checks. This is concerning given the suspension failures emerged within this period, as minor issues could have escalated without timely attention. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension, particularly the offside suspension arm ball joint, which failed twice within two years. The condition of the nearside ball joint should also be checked, as it was not explicitly tested in the latest failure but was part of the 2025 failure. Rear wheel bearings, while currently classified as "slightly noisy," warrant immediate attention—excessive noise in this area can escalate into bearing failure, leading to wheel detachment. The structural integrity of the suspension mounts and subframe should be examined for corrosion or fatigue, as these can exacerbate alignment issues. Given the history, the brakes—though not explicitly failed—should be inspected for uneven wear or binding, especially if the vehicle exhibits pulling or reduced stopping performance. The advisories in the latest MOT highlight areas requiring urgent attention, and any buyer should verify whether these have been addressed since the test date.