2005 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · KF05 RTZ

Chronic wear in the steering rack and suspension components defines this vehicle's record, with play in the inner joints appearing as a recurring advisory over several years. Despite passing its last recorded test on 24 January 2023, the history reveals a persistent pattern of issues involving steering rack gaiters, distorted road wheels, and suspension deterioration. The most recent test outcome confirms that while the vehicle is roadworthy, it carries ongoing advisories for an oil leak, a worn engine mount stabilizer, and a corroded rear coil spring. The recorded mileage of 106,069 miles is low for a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 5,051 miles per year. This usage profile indicates lighter than average use or potential periods of standing. Mechanically, this often means that while drivetrain wear may be reduced, rubber-based components and structural elements, such as the suspension bushes and coil springs flagged in the records, may have deteriorated due to age and environmental exposure rather than distance traveled. Particular attention must be paid to the steering system, as play in the steering rack inner joints has been flagged consistently since 2018. During a test drive, the buyer should listen for knocking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds and feel for any vagueness or lack of precision in the steering response. The repeated mentions of distorted road wheels suggest previous impacts, which may have contributed to the long-term degradation of the steering rack and associated gaiters. Further inspection is required for the front lower rear engine mount stabilizer and the nearside rear coil spring, both noted as worn or corroded in the 2023 record. These defects can manifest as excessive engine vibration during acceleration or gear changes and instability or audible knocks when driving over bumps. Additionally, the reported oil leak and the 2019 failure for brake imbalance across both axles necessitate a visual check for fluid leaks under the engine and a test for any steering pull or pedal judder during braking.