2013 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · FD63 GVC

The most recent MOT test for the 2013 Renault Clio was conducted on 2025-12-17 and resulted in a failure due to a major defect: the offside front drive shaft constant velocity (CV) joint boot being split or insecure, allowing dirt ingress and compromising the joint’s sealing integrity. This failure contrasts sharply with the preceding MOTs, which were all passed without defects, indicating a sudden and critical mechanical failure that warrants immediate attention. The pattern of advisories over the past few years—particularly the recurring issues with tyre wear, rim distortion, and brake disc wear—suggests that while the vehicle has maintained roadworthiness in the past, it has not escaped wear-related problems entirely. The presence of a major failure in the latest test underscores the importance of addressing the CV joint issue promptly to prevent further damage to the drivetrain components, such as the differential or axle seals, which could lead to costly repairs or reduced reliability. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 68,868 miles at the time of assessment is unusually low for a 13-year-old Renault Clio, averaging just 5,298 miles per year. Such a low annual mileage is atypical for a car of this age and typically reflects either infrequent use, long periods of stationary storage, or both. However, prolonged idling or standing in damp conditions can accelerate corrosion, particularly on brake components, wheel rims, and exhaust systems, which aligns with the advisories observed in the MOT history. For example, the repeated rim distortions and sidewall damage suggest that the vehicle has either been subjected to uneven loading or stored in conditions that exacerbated structural stress over time. Additionally, low mileage can mask the effects of fluid degradation, such as brake fluid contamination or coolant system corrosion, which may not be apparent until they reach critical thresholds. Given the recent MOT failure and the history of advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the drivetrain and suspension systems. The CV joint failure indicates that the boot has degraded, allowing contaminants to enter the joint, which can lead to premature wear of the CV axle and potential bearing failure. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the offside front axle, particularly a grinding or clunking sound when accelerating or turning, which could signal joint or bearing issues. Inspect the CV boot visually for any signs of further deterioration or leaks, and check for excessive play in the joint when the wheel is rotated manually. The brake system should also be scrutinised, with particular attention to the offside front brake discs, which have shown signs of wear and pitting. Look for uneven braking performance, a spongy or pulsating pedal feel, or excessive brake dust accumulation, which may indicate warping or binding calipers. For the remaining checks, focus on the tyre condition, as the advisories suggest significant wear patterns. The offside front tyre’s balding edge and sidewall damage indicate that the vehicle may have been driven with improper alignment or experienced uneven loading, leading to premature tyre failure. Inspect the tyres for cracks, bulges, or tread depth below the legal minimum of 1.6mm, especially on the inner edges and sidewalls, which are prone to perishing due to age or storage conditions. The near-side front tyre’s sidewall damage should be noted, as this could suggest impact events or improper storage. Additionally, check the vehicle’s suspension for signs of wear, such as cracked or stiffened suspension bushes, coil spring failure, or excessive road noise from the rear axle. Given the low mileage, the vehicle may also benefit from a check of the 12V battery, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or reduced capacity, which may not be apparent until the battery fails completely. Finally, verify the service history for fluid replacements, particularly brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these can degrade over time even with low mileage, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods.