2015 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · MK15 YDB

The Renault Clio’s most recent MOT on 16 March 2026 at 25,991 miles passed without defects, marking the third consecutive clear test after a single failure in March 2025. The trend since then is stable, with no repeat issues reported in the past year—suggesting the two critical faults from 2025 (thin front brake pads and a damaged track rod end dust cover) were addressed promptly. The absence of advisories or corrosion-related failures in recent tests also indicates no ongoing structural or mechanical deterioration. That said, the March 2025 failure reveals a lapse in basic maintenance: the track rod end dust cover was allowed to degrade to the point of dirt ingress, while the brake pads were left until they were nearly illegal. This implies either delayed servicing or neglect, though the subsequent clean tests confirm the problems were rectified. The vehicle’s mileage of 25,991 over 11 years—around 2,363 miles annually—is unusually low for its age, raising questions about usage patterns. The gaps between tests are consistent, with roughly 2,000 miles covered each year since 2023, but the jump from 20,107 miles in March 2023 to 22,164 in March 2024 suggests a period of inactivity or very light use. The under-tray protection fitted in both 2023 and 2024 tests is notable; while not a defect, it hints at either prior corrosion concerns or proactive measures by a previous owner. There’s no evidence of rapid mileage accumulation, which would typically accelerate wear on suspension, brakes, or drivetrain components. For a buyer, the primary focus should be the front suspension and braking system. The March 2025 failure highlights the track rod end ball joint as a weak point—inspect for play, fluid leaks, or uneven tyre wear, which could signal ongoing wear. The brake pads were replaced recently, but check for uneven disc thickness or glazing, as thin pads often indicate past neglect. Beyond that, the under-tray protection suggests potential rust risks; examine the sills, wheel arches, and exhaust mounts for surface corrosion or structural weakening. The clean MOT history since the 2025 repairs is encouraging, but the earlier failure underscores the importance of verifying that the track rod end and associated components were fully serviced—not just the dust cover replaced.