2012 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · CB07 RDB

Recurring advisories concerning brake disc condition and wheel distortion present the primary mechanical concern for this Renault Clio, indicating a pattern of wear that has persisted through its most recent test on 6 October 2025. While the vehicle passed its latest inspection, the presence of pitted and scored offside front brake discs alongside nearside front discs noted as worn suggests that the braking system is approaching the end of its service life for these components. The continued mention of distorted road wheels on both the nearside front and nearside rear since at least October 2024 indicates a long-term issue with wheel integrity that has not been rectified, which may impact ride quality and balance. The vehicle has covered approximately 82,645 miles over its 14-year lifespan, averaging roughly 5,903 miles per year. This is a notably low annual mileage for a vehicle of this age, which often implies less frequent use of the drivetrain and mechanical components. However, low-mileage usage can sometimes lead to specific issues such as the perishing of rubber components or the uneven degradation of braking surfaces due to infrequent high-speed or heavy-load operation. The MOT history reflects this, with 2023 records showing tyre sidewall cracking and perishing, a common symptom of vehicles that spend significant time stationary or are driven primarily on short, low-speed urban trips. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the braking performance and steering feel during a test drive. Given the advisories for pitted, scored, and worn brake discs, you should listen for any grinding noises when applying the brakes and check for any pedal judder or vibration through the footwell, which can indicate warped or unevenly worn discs. The reported distortion in the nearside front and rear wheels may manifest as a steering wheel shimmy at motorway speeds or a noticeable pull to one side. It is also worth inspecting the offside front anti-roll bar linkage, as the previously recorded deterioration of the ball joint dust cover could lead to premature wear of the joint itself, resulting in audible knocks or clunks when driving over uneven road surfaces or speed bumps. Beyond the braking and wheel issues, the history of tyre perishing suggests that all rubber-based components, including suspension bushes and various seals, should be visually inspected for signs of age-related cracking. While the major failures regarding indicator colours and washer jet alignment from 2024 appear to have been resolved, the recurring nature of the wheel and brake advisories suggests that maintenance has focused on passing the test rather than addressing underlying wear. A thorough inspection of the current tyre tread and sidewall condition is essential to ensure they have not reached a similar state of degradation as noted in previous years.