2017 Renault Twingo 1.0L Petrol · LS17 SFO

The most recent MOT, carried out on 18 April 2026, was passed but recorded a minor defect – an off‑side winds‑creen wiper blade that failed to meet the functional standard – and three advisories concerning tyre tread depth on the near‑side rear, off‑side rear and a TPMS pressure indication. Over the previous five years the MOT records show a clear pattern of recurring tyre‑wear advisories, increasing from a single front tyre warning in 2023 to multiple tyres flagged in 2024, 2025 and now 2026, indicating that tyre condition is deteriorating rather than improving. Apart from the wiper blade, no mechanical failures have been recorded, suggesting the core systems remain serviceable, but the tyre trend points to a need for attention to the suspension and alignment. At 32,052 miles on the odometer the vehicle averages roughly 3,560 miles per year, which is considerably below the typical UK average for a nine‑year‑old car. Such low annual mileage often reflects periods of limited use or extended storage, which can be benign for wear‑related components but may expose the car to age‑related degradation. The modest mileage means that consumables such as clutch, gearbox and engine internals are likely to be in good condition, yet components that suffer from lack of use – for example brake discs, calipers, battery plates and rubber parts – may have suffered corrosion, surface rust or perishing. When you inspect the car, give the tyre condition the highest priority. Verify the tread depth on all four tyres with a tread‑depth gauge, looking for any sidewall cracking, dry‑rot or uneven wear that could indicate mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes or failing wheel bearings. During a test drive listen for any clunk, knock or humming from the front or rear suspension, and feel for a pull to one side which would corroborate an alignment issue. Confirm that the TPMS warning light is extinguished after setting the correct pressures, and replace the defective off‑side wiper blade to avoid reduced visibility in rain. Check the condition of the tyre sidewalls for age‑related perishing, especially on the off‑side front tyre that was flagged as slightly damaged in 2025, as cracked rubber can separate under load. Given the vehicle’s age and low usage, also examine the 12‑volt battery for terminal corrosion and test its cranking voltage; a battery older than five years may need replacement even if it still holds a charge. Inspect the brake discs and pads for surface rust, glazing or uneven material loss, and verify that the calipers move freely without binding – a common issue in cars that sit for long periods. Look over the engine bay for any signs of fluid leakage, dried oil or coolant deposits, and consider having the coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil replaced if they have not been changed within the manufacturer’s time intervals, as fluids degrade with time regardless of mileage. Finally, check the chassis and under‑carriage for rust, especially around wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and ensure the service book shows regular oil changes and any required timing‑belt or chain service, which will give you confidence that the mechanical foundation of the car remains sound.