2016 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · LS16 YLP

A pattern of progressive deterioration around the front drivetrain and underbody corrosion defines the mechanical picture of this 2016 Renault Clio, most recently evidenced by its pass on 24 June 2026 following a failure the day before. The single major defect that caused that failure, a split nearside front outer constant velocity boot on the drive shaft, sits alongside a repeat advisory history for deteriorating outer and inner CV boots across consecutive tests, signalling a chronic vulnerability in the front drivetrain sealing. More concerning is the major failure on the offside front brake pipe, which was recorded as excessively corroded and is a structural safety item; this same pipe had been flagged the previous year as corroded but coated in grease, confirming a worsening trajectory of underbody corrosion rather than an isolated finding. Against this, the remainder of the braking system advisories from 2024 for thinning front pads and worn front discs have not reoccurred and appear to have been addressed. At 37,727 miles over ten years, this Clio has averaged roughly 3,773 miles per year, which is notably below typical usage for a small hatchback of this age. The MOT history shows annual testing without gaps, indicating the vehicle has remained in continuous use rather than being laid up for extended periods, so the low accumulation reflects genuinely light running rather than dormant storage. Mechanically, low annual mileage of this nature tends to preserve the engine internals and transmission but can accelerate the degradation of rubber components such as CV boots, suspension bushes and brake flexes, all of which are subject to perishing and drying out with age rather than wear, and it is precisely these age-related deterioration items that dominate the advisory and failure record on this particular car. For any prospective buyer, the priority areas to physically inspect are the front brake pipework, both inner and outer CV boots on the drive shafts, and the general condition of the front suspension and subframe. The offside front brake pipe corrosion failure requires a close visual check from underneath; the pipework should be examined along its full length, particularly where it runs along the underbody and through chassis mounting points, looking for surface rust, flaking, and any areas where previous repairs have been sleeved or replaced, as corroded brake pipes represent a failure to provide braking pressure and are an MoT failure item. Drive shaft boots should be inspected by turning the steering to full lock and examining both the inner and outer CV joints on each side for any splits, grease leakage, or perished rubber, as a boot that has been taped or clamped will fail again at the next test. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to any clicking or knocking noises from the front end during full-lock turns, which would indicate worn CV joints following the boot deterioration, and to the brake pedal for a spongy feel that could suggest compromised pipework. The front suspension should be listened to over uneven road surfaces for clonks or rattles, which on a low-mileage Clio of this age would typically point to worn anti-roll bar drop links, top mounts, or wishbone bushes. Given the age and the established pattern of underbody corrosion, a thorough inspection on a ramp is strongly recommended before purchase, with particular focus on the front subframe, mounting points, and any other brake or fuel lines running across the chassis, as the recorded history suggests this area is actively deteriorating rather than stable.