2008 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · HT08 AYJ

The vehicle is currently roadworthy but the maintenance history indicates a worsening trend regarding mechanical and structural components. While it passed the most recent test in February 2026 at 125,831 miles, the tester flagged both front tyres as reaching the legal limit with uneven wear. This follows a period of significant concern in 2025 where multiple priority defects were identified, suggesting that while the car remains operational, repairs are being addressed reactively rather than through a proactive maintenance schedule. At 18 years old, the recorded 125,831 miles represent an average of approximately 7,000 miles per year, which is consistent with typical light domestic usage. The mileage pattern appears steady recently, with roughly 5,700 miles covered between March 2025 and February 2026, and another 5,700 miles in the preceding eleven months. This consistent mileage accumulation suggests the vehicle is used regularly enough to prevent seizing, though the age-related degradation of rubber and metal components is evident in the inspection data. A buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the front sub-frame and suspension geometry. The 2025 test explicitly identified structural corrosion on the sub-frame and play in the track rod end ball joint, while the 2024 failure noted play in a sub-frame ball joint. These issues, combined with the uneven tyre wear seen in 2026, indicate potentially worn steering components or failing bushings. The deteriorated front fuel hose noted in 2025 also requires immediate verification to prevent fluid leaks. The braking system demands close attention as the tester flagged a corroded offside rear brake pipe and thin front brake pads in March 2025. The presence of grease or material covering the corroded pipe is often an attempt to hide rust from the tester, so a physical inspection should verify that the brake lines have been replaced or properly treated and that the current pads have sufficient life remaining to ensure the vehicle does not suffer a mechanical failure shortly after purchase.