2015 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · LS15 YLM

A recurring theme in the MOT record is the front suspension arm ball joint, which has been flagged twice as a serious safety defect – first as an excessively worn joint in 2023 and later as a dangerous likelihood of detachment in 2025 – alongside a fluid‑leaking front shock absorber in the same year. Brake pipe corrosion on both nearside front and rear pipes has also appeared repeatedly, and a minor rear‑exhaust leak was noted in 2025. The latest test on 27 August 2026 shows a clean pass with no defects recorded, indicating that the most recent repairs have temporarily restored roadworthiness, but the history points to a pattern of critical suspension and brake‑line issues that have required intervention. At 59,585 mi the car averages roughly 5,400 mi per year, well below the typical usage for a 2015 model. Such low annual mileage can mean reduced wear on drivetrain and tyre components, yet it does not eliminate age‑related degradation of rubber parts, bushings and corrosion‑prone steel. The MOT chronology shows no prolonged gaps in testing, suggesting the vehicle has been kept on the road consistently, but the low mileage may also imply periods of limited use where corrosion can develop unnoticed, particularly on exposed brake pipes and suspension joints. When inspecting the vehicle, place particular emphasis on the front suspension arm on the off‑side. Check for any play by rocking the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions and listen for clunking noises over bumps. Examine the shock absorber for signs of oil seepage around the mount or on the bodywork. The brake pipes should be visually inspected for surface rust, pitting or grease deposits, and the pedal should feel firm without sponginess, indicating the lines are intact. A brief rev and listen for a hissing or ticking at the rear of the exhaust will reveal whether the previously noted minor leak has been fully rectified. Given the documented repairs, it would be prudent to obtain evidence of the work carried out on the front suspension arm, shock absorber and brake pipe corrosion, and to have a qualified mechanic perform a thorough check of those systems before purchase. Anticipate that the front brake discs and pads may soon require replacement, as they have been flagged as thin in earlier tests, and monitor the off‑side rear service brake for any binding during a low‑speed stop. Addressing these items proactively will mitigate the risk of recurring failures and help maintain the car’s roadworthiness beyond the current MOT.