2014 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · HT14 GMU

The most recent MOT inspection on 28 August 2026 resulted in a failure, indicating a significant decline in the vehicle's mechanical condition compared to previous years. While the car maintained a clean record through much of its life, the recent history shows a worrying downward trend in the integrity of the suspension and drivetrain components. The transition from minor advisories in 2025 to major failures in 2026 suggests that wear on critical components has progressed from manageable degradation to immediate safety concerns. This pattern indicates that the vehicle is currently entering a phase of increased maintenance requirements where multiple wear items are failing simultaneously. With 165,056 miles recorded over twelve years, this Renault Clio has averaged approximately 13,755 miles per year. This is considered high mileage for a small hatchback of this age, suggesting frequent use rather than long periods of standing. While consistent usage can sometimes prevent certain types of corrosion associated with sitting idle, such high mileage places substantial cumulative stress on the engine, gearbox, and all chassis components. The buyer should expect that major service items, such as the timing belt, water pump, and clutch assembly, will have been subject to significant fatigue, and the high mileage increases the likelihood of impending failures in high-wear areas like the alternator, starter motor, and various engine mounts. The recent MOT failure highlights critical issues with the constant velocity boots on both the nearside and offside front drive shafts. The deterioration and splitting of these boots allow grease to escape and grit to enter the joints, which will lead to rapid wear of the drive shaft itself. On a test drive, listen for rhythmic clicking or popping noises when turning the steering wheel fully, which indicates CV joint damage. Furthermore, the failure of the nearside front suspension arm bush and the advisory regarding play in the anti-roll bar linkages suggest significant wear in the front end. You should listen for clunking or knocking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, and watch for any wandering or imprecise steering response, which could indicate compromised handling and structural stability. In addition to the immediate mechanical failures, there is a history of corrosion on the offside front brake pipe, which requires careful scrutiny. Inspect the brake lines for any signs of weeping fluid or heavy surface oxidation, as compromised lines can lead to sudden loss of braking pressure. The previous advisories regarding tyre cuts and uneven wear also suggest that the vehicle's wheel alignment may be out of specification due to the worn suspension components. During your inspection, check the tyre sidewalls for any bulging or structural damage and ensure that the current tyres have adequate tread depth and are not showing signs of uneven wear patterns. Given the high mileage and age, also verify the service history to ensure that fluids and filters have been changed according to a strict schedule rather than just when the MOT requires it.