2015 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · LR65 LOF

The most recent DVSA examination dated 7 November 2025 resulted in a pass, although the test did record a combination of advisories and one minor defect. Looking across the recent history, the maintenance trend is showing signs of deterioration rather than stability. The October 2025 test produced three major advisories relating to the windscreen washer system, a worn suspension arm pin or bush, and ongoing front tyre and shock absorber concerns. These same issues have subsequently been downgraded to advisories following post-test rectification, but they indicate a vehicle with components approaching the end of their service life. The 2023 and 2024 tests both flagged front suspension components and brake disc condition respectively, meaning there has been a consistent pattern of front axle wear developing progressively over the past three years, which warrants close attention from any prospective buyer. With a recorded mileage of 50,474 miles across approximately eleven years of service, this Clio has covered an average of just 4,589 miles annually. This is substantially below the typical mileage for a vehicle of this age and suggests either light usage or extended periods of standing. Such low annual mileage is generally favourable for major drivetrain components such as the engine, clutch and gearbox, but it does create specific concerns relating to corrosion from inactivity, particularly on brake discs which can develop severe surface rust and pitting, and on calipers which may bind or seize due to infrequent operation. Equally, low usage tends to compromise 12V battery longevity and leads to premature ageing of rubber components including tyres, drive belts and hoses. Given the recurring advisories around the nearside front tyre, which has been flagged for cuts, edge wear and proximity to the legal limit across both 2025 tests, the buyer should carefully inspect the remaining tread depth and sidewall integrity. Edge wear can indicate incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension bushes or a failing ball joint, all of which have been flagged in the history. The suspension arm bush failure at the front offside is particularly significant and should be physically inspected for any remaining play, knocking or uneven tyre wear patterns across both front tyres. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, assess for any pulling to one side under braking, and check for vibration through the steering wheel which would suggest warped or heavily corroded brake discs. Brake pedal feel should be firm and progressive without excessive travel. Additional mechanical considerations arise from the 2025 advisory regarding light oil misting on the nearside front shock absorber and the corroded rear coil spring. Oil misting indicates the beginning of seal failure and the dampers will likely require replacement within the next twelve to eighteen months, particularly given the typical British road conditions which accelerate wear. The corroded rear coil spring is a common failure point on Clios of this age and, while not immediately dangerous, will progressively worsen and should be monitored for any unusual noises over speed humps or uneven surfaces. Beyond the MOT-recorded items, the buyer should verify the timing belt and water pump replacement history if the vehicle is fitted with a timing belt rather than a chain, check the condition of the under trays and engine covers which were noted in 2020 as restricting full inspection, confirm all fluid services including brake fluid, coolant and engine oil are within their recommended calendar intervals, and examine the rear tyres for perishing or cracking given they have been flagged previously in 2019 and 2023 for similar deterioration. A thorough road test assessing clutch bite point, gearbox selection, and any warning lights on the dashboard is strongly advised.