2012 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · LL62 VBC

The latest MOT test on 2025-11-17 resulted in a pass, though it highlighted persistent tyre wear advisories and a concerning trend in tyre condition. Over the past three years, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring tyre-related issues, with two dangerous failures in 2023—both involving exposed tyre cords—and multiple advisories on tyre wear approaching legal limits, particularly on the front and near-side rear tyres. The 2025 failure also noted a major failure of the near-side front track rod end ball joint with excessive play, alongside a fractured coil spring on the offside rear, indicating significant wear in suspension components. While the 2024 and 2023 tests showed only minor advisories, the progression from dangerous failures to critical suspension defects suggests the vehicle has either been underused for extended periods, leading to accelerated wear from standing, or has undergone heavy, high-mileage usage with inadequate maintenance. The advisories on tyre wear close to legal limits further imply either neglect or inconsistent tyre rotation and balancing, which can exacerbate uneven wear patterns. The recorded mileage of 103,227 miles for a 14-year-old Renault Clio aligns with a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 7,373 miles per year, which is typical for its age. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit details on usage patterns, but the presence of both low-mileage and high-mileage-related defects suggests the vehicle may have experienced periods of inactivity followed by periods of heavier use. Tyre perishing and cracking, particularly on the near-side rear and offside front tyres, are more likely to develop during prolonged standing, as rubber compounds degrade over time due to exposure to oxygen, heat, and UV light. Meanwhile, suspension components like the track rod end ball joints and coil springs are prone to wear from both static stress and dynamic loading, with the fractured coil spring indicating a critical failure point that may have been exacerbated by either poor maintenance or excessive load cycles. The annual mileage alone does not fully explain the wear progression, but the combination of tyre and suspension issues suggests a need for a thorough inspection of both consumable and structural components. Given the recurring tyre defects and the critical suspension failures recorded in the MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the tyres, suspension, and braking system. Start by examining the near-side rear and offside front tyres for signs of further sidewall cracking or cord exposure, as these areas have already failed MOT tests. Listen for unusual suspension noises, particularly clunks or rattles during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate worn or broken coil springs, damaged suspension bushes, or binding track rod ends. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which could suggest misalignment, poor wheel balancing, or steering component issues. Inspect the front suspension for any signs of oil leaks around ball joints or bushings, as these can accelerate wear. Additionally, verify that the steering and suspension components are not binding or excessively playy, as the 2025 failure highlighted excessive play in the track rod end ball joint, which could lead to steering instability or premature failure of other components. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should also address the broader implications of the vehicle’s maintenance history. Given the age and mileage, the brake system should be thoroughly inspected for signs of corrosion on discs and linings, particularly on the near-side rear, where previous failures suggest potential issues. Check the brake fluid level and condition, as standing vehicles can lead to brake fluid degradation over time, and replace it if it appears dark or contaminated. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or excessive noise, as the coil spring failure may have compromised structural integrity, though this is less likely to be directly related to emissions. Finally, since the vehicle has been in use for over a decade, consider checking the engine oil and coolant for signs of degradation, such as sludge buildup or sediment, which can indicate prolonged service intervals. The buyer should also verify the service book for any missing or outdated records, especially for fluid changes, brake servicing, and suspension component replacements, to ensure the vehicle has not been neglected in critical areas. If the suspension components, such as the track rod ends and coil springs, have been replaced, confirm their condition and ensure they are securely fitted and aligned.