2017 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · LS17 FTA

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 Renault Clio occurred on 2026-04-02, where it failed due to a major defect—an offside front coil spring being fractured or broken. This failure contrasts sharply with the preceding MOT on the same date in 2025, which passed without any recorded defects, suggesting a critical structural component failure that has not been rectified. While earlier MOTs show a pattern of recurring advisories—particularly concerning tyre wear, brake disc conditions, and minor fluid leaks—there is no evidence of a worsening maintenance trend beyond the sudden coil spring failure. The vehicle’s history indicates that while it has maintained roadworthiness in most respects, the coil spring issue represents a significant, unresolved mechanical failure that must be addressed immediately to prevent further damage or safety risks. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 93,162 miles over approximately nine years reflects a moderate annual usage rate of around 10,351 miles per annum, which is typical for a car of this age and class. This level of mileage alone does not suggest excessive wear beyond what is expected for a well-maintained vehicle, but the combination of consistent advisories—especially those related to tyre wear patterns and brake component degradation—points to regular operational stress. The lack of significant mileage spikes or prolonged periods of inactivity does not indicate abuse, but the wear advisories suggest that consumables like tyres and brakes have been subjected to steady use, leading to gradual degradation. The coil spring failure, however, is a red flag that may have been exacerbated by either high-mileage wear or previous undetected issues, warranting a thorough inspection of the suspension system and related components. For the prospective buyer, the most critical immediate actions should focus on the coil spring failure, as this is a major structural defect that could compromise handling and stability. Prioritise a professional inspection of the entire suspension system, including the offside front coil spring, shock absorbers, and associated linkages, to confirm the extent of the damage and identify any secondary wear or misalignment. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly when negotiating bumps or sharp turns, and check for uneven ride height or excessive play in the steering wheel. Additionally, inspect the front suspension bushings for signs of wear or cracking, as these can contribute to handling instability. If the coil spring is confirmed as beyond repair, budget for a replacement, which may require additional work on the mounting brackets or control arm components. Beyond the coil spring issue, the tyre advisories—particularly the near-worn-through conditions on the inner edges of the front tyres and the cracking on the offside rear tyre—demand immediate attention. The inner edge wear on the front tyres suggests directional or lateral forces acting on the tyres, which could be due to misaligned wheels, suspension misalignment, or uneven tyre pressure. Verify tyre pressures at the correct PSI for the load and ensure all wheels are aligned properly. Replace the severely worn or cracked tyres promptly, as inner edge wear increases the risk of sudden blowouts or hydroplaning, while tyre cracking indicates ageing rubber that may fail under stress. The brake disc advisories—pitting and scoring but not seriously weakened—are a common sign of heavy use or thermal stress. Inspect the brake discs for binding or excessive heat discolouration, and check the brake calipers for any signs of sticking or binding, which could lead to uneven braking performance or brake fade. Finally, consider a comprehensive fluid check, including the brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil, as these fluids degrade over time and can affect performance and longevity. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, a full service history check is advisable to confirm the last oil change, brake fluid flush, and suspension component inspections were performed.