2013 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · LB09 MOO

The most recent MOT test on the 2013 Renault Clio, conducted on 2025-11-03, resulted in a passing outcome, though it was followed by a subsequent failure on the same date due to a critical near-side front track rod end ball joint exhibiting excessive play, which is a major defect under DVSA standards. The preceding MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and minor failures, particularly concerning the front and rear suspension components, with the ball joint and coil springs being notably affected. While the vehicle passed in 2024 and 2023, the consistent presence of corrosion-related advisories—such as the near-side rear brake pipe and coil springs—suggests underlying issues that may have either persisted or worsened over time. The fact that the latest MOT passed despite these prior failures indicates either effective corrective action or that the defects have not yet reached a point of immediate roadworthiness, but the overall maintenance trend leans towards a need for proactive attention rather than a stable or improving condition. The recorded mileage of 55,106 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 13 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 4,239 miles per year. This is significantly below the average for a car of this age, which often accumulates between 8,000 to 12,000 miles annually, particularly in the UK where driving patterns and vehicle usage vary. Such low mileage can stem from infrequent use, long periods of stationary storage, or a preference for alternative transportation methods. However, low mileage does not inherently guarantee better mechanical condition, as prolonged inactivity can exacerbate issues such as corrosion, particularly in suspension components, brake systems, and fluid degradation. The vehicle’s history of minor failures and advisories—especially those related to corrosion and wear—may have been exacerbated by extended periods of non-use, leading to accelerated deterioration in critical areas like the ball joints, coil springs, and brake components. For a prospective buyer, the 2013 Renault Clio with its current MOT history and low mileage profile requires a thorough mechanical inspection to address both immediate and long-term concerns. Given the repeated advisories on the near-side front track rod end ball joint and the significant play noted in prior tests, the buyer should inspect this component closely during a test drive, listening for unusual clunking noises when the vehicle is driven over bumps or at speed, which may indicate further wear or detachment. The corrosion on the near-side rear brake pipe and coil springs suggests that the brake system may also be compromised, so checking for uneven tyre wear, a spongy brake pedal, or a grinding noise when braking could reveal deeper issues. Additionally, the offside outer drive shaft joint failure in 2023 highlights a critical drivetrain concern; any whining or vibration during acceleration or at low speeds should be investigated, as a split boot can lead to severe transmission damage if left unaddressed. Beyond the mechanical checks, the vehicle’s low mileage makes it vulnerable to age-related wear, such as tyre sidewall cracking or perishing from exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations, which should be inspected for signs of dry rot or delamination. The battery should also be tested for capacity and terminal corrosion, as standing vehicles can lead to battery failure or sulphation. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, the buyer should verify the absence of service book stamps for fluid top-ups, particularly the brake fluid, which can degrade over time even without use. Calendar-based servicing of fluids like coolant and transmission fluid is recommended every two years, regardless of mileage, to mitigate corrosion and wear progression.