2016 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · LS16 XNH

The most recent DVSA examination on 26 August 2026 resulted in a pass, but the test is accompanied by three advisories that warrant close attention. A prior test on 24 August 2026 recorded a major failure for a split offside outer constant velocity joint boot on the front driveshaft, along with a minor defect for a deteriorated anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust cover, and the same brake-related advisories subsequently carried over. Across the documented MOT history the trend is best described as stable but cumulatively indicative of an older vehicle showing age-related wear rather than neglect, with recurring brake, tyre and corrosion advisories appearing each annual test. The brake pad wear advisories from the front axle have now appeared in both 2022 and 2026, suggesting the pads are approaching the end of their useful life, and the recent front brake disc pitting advisory combined with thin pads means a complete front brake refurbishment, including disc replacement, is likely imminent. Annual mileage is approximately 6,959 miles, which is broadly average for a vehicle of this age and not suggestive of either long periods of standing or high-intensity use. There are no significant gaps in MOT history and mileage progression between tests appears consistent, indicating the car has been in regular service. This level of usage typically corresponds to a mix of urban and short-to-medium distance driving, which tends to place moderate demands on the braking system, suspension components and tyres, particularly accelerating corrosion on underbody items such as coil springs and brake lines due to repeated short journeys and limited drying time. The persistence of front brake pad and disc advisories across multiple years, alongside the advisory for a binding near-side rear service brake, suggests a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the entire braking system before purchase. During a test drive, listen for any grinding, squealing or pulsing through the brake pedal, particularly under firm application, as this would confirm warped or excessively worn discs beyond the advisory threshold. A binding rear caliper can present as the vehicle pulling to one side, a hot-smell from the rear wheel after driving, or uneven rear tyre wear, and the mechanic should physically verify the caliper slider pins are free and the handbrake mechanism is fully releasing. The split CV boot failure on the offside front driveshaft is also worth re-examining; an inadequately repaired boot will allow grease loss and ingress of water and grit, leading to premature joint failure characterised by a clicking noise on full lock turns and potential vibration under acceleration. The deteriorated anti-roll bar ball joint dust cover, if left unattended, can allow contamination of the joint, eventually producing a clonking sound over speed humps or during sharp direction changes. Given the vehicle is now ten years old, age-related deterioration beyond the documented MOT items should also form part of any inspection. The coolant bottle being recorded as empty on the 2024 test is a notable concern, as running without coolant even briefly risks head gasket damage or air ingress into the cooling system, and the system should be pressure-tested and bled properly to confirm there is no persistent leak. The recurring tyre perishing and cracking advisories across nearly every recent test indicate the wheels have aged out of service due to rubber degradation, and any tyres still fitted should be closely inspected for sidewall cracking, as ten-year-old rubber loses elasticity and grip regardless of remaining tread depth. Undertrays were noted as concealing testable items in 2024, so a buyer should ensure these are removed for a proper visual inspection of the underbody, paying particular attention to the previously flagged corroded rear coil springs for any progression towards structural failure. Additionally, with calendar-aged fluids and components, the 12V battery health should be tested, brake fluid should be replaced regardless of condition due to its hygroscopic nature, and the timing belt or cam belt replacement interval verified against the manufacturer schedule, as a ten-year-old Clio is well within the typical replacement window for this critical maintenance item.