2014 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · FL64 LRF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 3 October 2025, was passed with a single minor defect – the off‑side front drive‑shaft constant‑velocity boot was recorded as severely deteriorated. Earlier that same day the vehicle had failed on the same CV‑boot issue together with a major fault on the off‑side front anti‑roll bar linkage ball joint, but the subsequent pass shows the offending items were at least partially remedied. Over the past four years the record alternates between passes and failures, with significant faults recorded for headlamp illumination, parking‑brake efficiency and tyre tread limits, indicating a maintenance pattern that has been reactive rather than consistently proactive. The latest pass suggests the most recent owner has addressed the most critical items, yet the recurrence of similar defects points to a need for close scrutiny of the suspension and drivetrain components. At 56 053 miles the car averages just under 4 700 miles per annum, which is well below the typical usage for a 2014 model. Such low annual mileage often implies periods of infrequent use or prolonged storage. While reduced wear on engine and transmission parts is a benefit, extended idle time can accelerate rubber perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of brake components and suspension joints. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage, but the modest total distance means that age‑related degradation may be more significant than wear‑related wear. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the off‑side front CV boot and the anti‑roll bar linkage. Examine the CV joint for any grease seepage, splatter on the surrounding hub and for any play when the wheel is rocked back and forth; a clicking or whine on acceleration or deceleration would indicate imminent joint failure. The anti‑roll bar ball joint should be inspected for excessive play and for any knocking noises when the vehicle is taken over a speed bump or through a corner; worn bushes will also manifest as uneven front‑tyre wear. The tyre advisories from 2023 and 2024 highlight that the front tyres were already close to the legal tread limit and the rear off‑side tyre showed cracking; a thorough tread‑depth check, sidewall inspection for dry‑rot and a visual assessment for any bulges or cuts are essential, and replacement of all four tyres is advisable if any are below 3 mm or show age‑related perishing. Verify that all exterior lamps, especially the near‑side dipped‑beam headlamp and the front position lamp, illuminate correctly, and test the parking brake for firm holding power – a weak or uneven hold may indicate cable stretch or caliper piston binding that will need adjustment or replacement. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, a comprehensive age‑related inspection is prudent. Check the tyre sidewalls for cracking and the tread for signs of hardening, as rubber can degrade even on low‑use tyres. Inspect the suspension bushings, especially the front lower arms and anti‑roll bar links, for corrosion or loss of compliance, and listen for clunks during a low‑speed ride over bumps. Examine the brake discs for surface rust, scoring or uneven pad transfer; any shudder when applying the brakes warrants disc resurfacing or replacement. Test the 12 V battery with a load tester and look for signs of sulphation, and consider a replacement if the voltage is below 12.4 V after a short soak. Finally, confirm that engine oil, coolant and brake fluid have been changed within the recommended calendar intervals – brake fluid should be refreshed at least every two years, and coolant should be inspected for colour and sediment, as time‑based degradation can lead to overheating or corrosion of the cooling system. A full service book with dated stamps will give confidence that routine maintenance has been observed despite the vehicle’s modest mileage.