2010 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · LS60 AAU

The most recent MOT, carried out on 12 December 2025, was passed but recorded two advisories – front brake discs showing wear and an off‑side rear registration‑plate lamp inoperative. Over the preceding three years the vehicle has moved from two outright failures in late 2023 and late 2024 to clean passes in 2024‑12‑06 and 2025‑12‑12, indicating a clear improvement in its condition and that the major faults identified previously have been remedied. The pattern suggests that the owner has addressed the critical safety items, although the lingering advisories point to components that will need attention soon. At 65,474 miles on a 2010 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 4,100 mi, well below the UK average for a car of this age. Such low utilisation often reflects periods of limited use or prolonged storage, which can be as detrimental as high mileage because age‑related degradation of rubber, fluids and metal surfaces proceeds regardless of distance. The modest mileage does reduce the wear load on consumables such as clutch plates, engine bearings and transmission gears, but it also raises the likelihood of tyre sidewall perishing, battery sulphation and corrosion of suspension bushings that have been idle for long stretches. Prospective buyers should focus on the areas that have repeatedly featured in the MOT record. Inspect the front suspension for any signs of a new coil‑spring fracture or cracked leaf, and verify that the previously broken nearside front coil spring has been correctly replaced and is free of corrosion. Examine the off‑side front CV joint boot for cracks, tears or dried‑out grease, and check the joint for any metallic particles in the oil – a split boot will soon admit dirt and lead to joint failure. The off‑side front track‑rod end ball joint and the steering rack inner joints were flagged for excessive play; a thorough road‑test should reveal any clunking when turning, a vague wandering feel, or uneven tyre wear. The tyre wear pattern noted on the nearside front tyre – smooth on both inner and outer edges – is a classic symptom of mis‑aligned suspension or worn steering components, so a professional alignment check is advisable. Finally, the front brake discs are already worn; measure the remaining thickness and anticipate replacement within the next few thousand miles, especially if the vehicle is to be driven in demanding conditions. Beyond the recorded defects, age‑related checks are essential. Verify that the tyre tread is still within legal limits and that the sidewalls show no cracking, dry rot or bulging, as tyres over ten years old can fail even with low mileage. Inspect the battery for sulphation, check the electrolyte level if it is a serviceable unit, and test the cranking voltage – a battery older than ten years often needs replacement regardless of use. Look for corrosion on the chassis, especially around the wheel arches, suspension mounting points and exhaust system, which can be exacerbated by long periods of standing. Confirm that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been refreshed in line with calendar intervals, and that the service book shows regular oil changes and any required timing‑belt or timing‑chain work for a 2010 Clio. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and the likely near‑term maintenance budget.