2016 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · CX66 AOP

The most recent MOT on 6 February 2026 was passed, but it carried four advisories: slight play in the nearside front lower suspension arm ball‑joint, front inner tyres approaching the legal tread limit, and front brake discs on both sides showing wear, pitting or scoring. Over the previous three years the record shows a pattern of recurring front brake disc wear, a one‑off failure in 2025 due to rear‑tyre tread below the 1.6 mm minimum, and subsequent rear‑tyre wear advisories in 2024. The trend is therefore mixed – tyre depth has been addressed after the 2025 failure, but the brake discs continue to be flagged each year and a new suspension ball‑joint play advisory has appeared, indicating that wear on these components is ongoing rather than improving. At ten years old the car has only 41,127 mi on the clock, roughly 4,100 mi per annum, which is well below the average for a vehicle of this age. Such low utilisation often points to periods of limited use or extended storage, which can be gentle on wear items such as the engine, transmission and clutch but can also allow age‑related deterioration of rubber and metal components. The modest mileage means the drivetrain and suspension bushes are likely to have experienced less cumulative fatigue, yet the calendar age means seals, hoses and tyre compounds may have hardened, and corrosion can develop on exposed bodywork or under‑carriage parts during idle periods. When you inspect the car, give particular attention to the front brake system. Measure the disc thickness against the manufacturer’s minimum and look for surface scoring or rust that could cause brake shudder or reduced stopping power. During a road test listen for any pulsation through the pedal, a high‑pitched squeal or a feeling of the car pulling to one side, which would suggest the discs are near the end of their service life or that the calipers are beginning to bind. The nearside front lower ball‑joint should be checked for excessive play by rocking the wheel at the 12 o’clock position; any clunk or looseness may indicate impending joint failure and could lead to steering imprecision. Examine all tyres for sidewall cracking, dry rot or uneven wear patterns; even though the tread depth appears acceptable, tyres older than six years can perish regardless of mileage, so verify the manufacture date on the sidewall. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, also inspect items that degrade with time. Test the 12 V battery voltage and, if possible, its cranking amperage, as batteries left idle for long periods often lose capacity. Look for corrosion on the battery terminals and around the chassis, especially in the wheel arches and under the rear suspension, where standing water can promote rust. Check that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – are at the correct grades and appear clear; fluids over five years old should be replaced even if the mileage is low. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil changes and that any recommended time‑based services, such as timing‑belt or chain inspection, have been performed, as these are critical to long‑term reliability on a lightly used but ageing vehicle.