2016 Renault Twingo 1.0L Petrol · DS16 LBU

The vehicle remains roadworthy as of its most recent MOT on 2026-04-13, passing with minor advisories. However, the maintenance trend is clearly worsening — the same suspension ball joint failed twice in separate tests, and shock absorber dust shields have been deteriorated in every MOT since 2024, indicating a persistent lack of attention to front suspension components. The recurring failure on the ball joints suggests either a design flaw, poor-quality replacements, or neglect in servicing, which raises concerns about long-term handling and safety. Mileage progression shows a steady annual increase of roughly 8,000 miles, which is typical for a 10-year-old vehicle. The gap between tests is consistently around 12 months, with no evidence of sudden mileage spikes or long periods of inactivity. The 2025-04-14 test occurred at 73,117 miles, followed by the 2026-04-13 test at 80,080 miles — a 6,963-mile increase over 12 months, which aligns with normal usage. No anomalies in mileage accumulation are evident, so wear patterns can be attributed to regular driving rather than erratic or neglected use. Buyers should inspect the front suspension system in detail, particularly the lower ball joints on both sides, as these have repeatedly failed to meet legal standards. The shock absorber dust shields being consistently deteriorated suggests the dampers themselves may be nearing end-of-life, which could lead to uneven ride quality and reduced braking performance. Brake discs were flagged as worn but not dangerously compromised in 2024, but given the age and mileage, a full brake system inspection — including calipers, pads, and rotor thickness — is essential. The windscreen damage, while not critical, should be assessed for structural integrity and potential impact on driver visibility if the crack is near the driver’s line of sight. The vehicle’s mechanical condition reflects a pattern of deferred maintenance rather than catastrophic failure. While it remains legal to drive, the repeated suspension and damping issues indicate that a significant repair bill is likely imminent. A buyer should budget for front suspension overhaul, brake servicing, and possibly a full inspection of the chassis for corrosion or structural fatigue, especially around the suspension mounting points. The MOT record does not indicate any major safety-critical failures, but the recurring minor faults suggest the car has not been maintained to a high standard.