2012 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · LA12 VDP

The most recent DVSA examination on 25 October 2025 recorded a PASS with no defects or advisories, which is a positive immediate outcome. However, reviewing the broader history reveals that the vehicle failed at the same station just three days earlier on 22 October 2025, with a combination of Major and Minor defects alongside two advisories. The majors concerned an inoperative nearside rear stop lamp and a windscreen washer system providing insufficient washer liquid, while the minor related to an offside rear registration plate lamp, and the advisories flagged an offside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit on its edge and a slightly damaged nearside rear tyre. Despite the rapid turnaround pass, the presence of major failures immediately prior suggests a pattern of deferred minor maintenance rather than a worsening structural trend, but the tyre edge wear advisory is worth probing as it can indicate a suspension or geometry issue rather than simple wear. The recorded mileage of 127,251 miles over approximately fourteen years equates to an annual average of around 9,089 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and category, suggesting the car has seen consistent rather than excessive use. There are no anomalous mileage gaps or sudden accumulations visible in the test records, indicating the odometer reading is likely consistent with the vehicle's working life. This level of usage is sufficient to have worn through at least one set of consumables including tyres, brake pads and discs, clutch (if applicable) and potentially ageing suspension components, but not so excessive as to flag major mechanical concerns beyond normal wear and tear. For a prospective buyer, the offside rear tyre worn on its edge is the most significant advisory to investigate physically. Edge wear, particularly on one side only, commonly points to issues with wheel alignment, worn suspension bushes, a sagging coil spring, or a slightly bent component. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the rear suspension over uneven surfaces, and feel for any pulling to one side or instability under braking. Inspect the rear tyres for uneven inner or outer shoulder wear, and check that the tracking is within manufacturer tolerance. The nearside rear tyre should also be closely examined for the recorded damage, ensuring there are no bulges, sidewall cracking, or exposed cords, and that it has been replaced with a matching specification. Additionally, the rear stop lamp and washer fluid issues are minor and easily rectified, but verify they are presently functional and that the washer reservoir is properly filled and the pump operative. Given the vehicle's age and typical mileage, several age-related checks should form part of any viewing. Examine all tyres, including the unused spare, for perishing or cracking of the sidewall rubber, which is common on vehicles over a decade old regardless of tread depth. Inspect the brake discs for any surface corrosion, particularly on the rear drums or discs, and verify the calipers are not seizing by ensuring smooth rolling when jacked. The exhaust system, particularly the rear silencer and mounting brackets, should be checked for corrosion given the vehicle's age. Confirm the 12V battery is holding charge and within its service life, and request evidence of recent replacement of brake fluid, coolant and engine oil in line with calendar-based servicing schedules. Finally, ensure the service book is fully stamped and cross-reference the recorded mileages with the MOT history to verify continuity, while listening on a test drive for any timing chain rattle on cold start, which is a known area to monitor on higher-mileage Renault Clios of this generation.