2013 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · GV13 GVJ

The latest MOT test on 22 July 2026 resulted in a pass, though with an advisory noting the nearside front road wheel is slightly distorted. Reviewing the broader history, the vehicle has maintained a consistent pass record since 2019, with only minor tyre wear advisories in 2024 and the recent wheel distortion flag. This suggests a generally stable maintenance trend, with no escalating structural or safety-related failures, though the emergence of advisories in recent years indicates a need for closer scrutiny of suspension alignment and wheel integrity. At 85,370 miles over 13 years, the annual mileage averages around 6,567 miles, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and implies neither excessive wear nor prolonged inactivity. This moderate usage profile reduces the likelihood of severe drivetrain fatigue but does not eliminate age-related degradation, particularly in components like suspension bushes, brake hoses, and fluid systems that deteriorate over time regardless of mileage. The distorted nearside front wheel advisory should be investigated immediately, as even minor distortion can lead to uneven tyre wear, vibration through the steering wheel, or compromised handling, particularly at higher speeds. Inspect the wheel for visible buckling or lateral run-out, and check for corresponding uneven tyre wear patterns. The 2024 advisories for inner-edge tyre wear on both front tyres suggest a history of misalignment or suspension geometry issues, which may have contributed to the wheel distortion. On a test drive, listen for clunks or knocks from the front suspension over rough surfaces, and assess steering responsiveness for any pulling to one side, which could indicate persistent alignment or bush wear problems. Given the vehicle’s age, also prioritise checks for perished tyre sidewalls, as rubber compounds degrade over time even with adequate tread depth. Verify the 12V battery health, as older batteries often fail without warning, and inspect brake discs for surface corrosion or grooving that could indicate binding calipers from infrequent use. Finally, confirm the service history includes recent fluid changes—particularly brake fluid, which absorbs moisture over time—and examine the exhaust system for corrosion or leaks, as these are common in vehicles of this vintage.