2010 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · ML60 SNF

The most recent DVSA test on 7 July 2026 returned a Pass, although an advisory was raised for an oil leak deemed not excessive. Looking across the recent history, the overall trend is one of stable but ageing condition rather than improvement, with a growing accumulation of advisories. The 2025 test carried three advisories relating to oil leak, worn and pitted front brake discs, thinning front brake pads, and an offside front inner tyre close to the legal limit. The 2024 test added concerns regarding corroded fuel pipes and slight play in the offside front suspension arm ball joint, while 2023 saw a genuine fail for fractured front coil springs on both sides, alongside advisories for deteriorated fuel hose and split front shock absorber boots. The recurrence of the same oil leak advisory across three consecutive tests and the persistence of fuel pipe and hose issues indicate slow degradation rather than active neglect, but a buyer should be aware that these items are likely to require attention in the near term. The recorded mileage of 103,702 miles on a 2010 vehicle equates to approximately 6,481 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a car of this age and suggests neither excessively hard use nor prolonged standing. The MOT records do not show any significant gaps in mileage progression that would indicate long periods of inactivity, nor any unusually rapid accumulation that would point to high-stress driving such as frequent motorway commuting. At this mileage and age, consumable wear items such as clutches, suspension bushes, engine mounts, and exhaust components are approaching or have passed their expected service life, even though specific advisories in these areas have not been raised. The mileage is consistent with a car that has been in regular use, which is generally positive from a corrosion and rubber-seal standpoint, though the higher overall odometer reading means the timing chain, water pump, and injector seals on the 1.5 dCi or valve stem seals on petrol variants should be considered as potential upcoming maintenance. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the recurring oil leak advisory. On a test drive, watch for blue or grey smoke from the exhaust on startup, oil residue around the engine sump, cam cover, or turbo area, and a continuously dropping dipstick level between services. Ask the seller when the oil was last changed and whether the source of the leak has been identified, as a persistent oil leak on a 16-year-old Clio can originate from the rocker cover gasket, sump plug, or rear main seal, with varying cost implications. The 2023 failure for fractured front coil springs suggests the front suspension has been stressed, and although replacement springs would have been fitted at the time of repair, it is worth inspecting for any sagging or uneven ride height, and listening for knocking noises over speed bumps or rough surfaces which could indicate worn suspension bushes or strut top mount wear. The advisories relating to corroded fuel pipes and deteriorated fuel hose warrant a thorough under-bonnet and under-vehicle inspection for any signs of fuel staining, perished rubber sections, or surface rust on metal fuel lines, as these components deteriorate progressively with age. The front brake discs and pads noted as worn in 2025 will almost certainly now require replacement, so budget for a front brake disc and pad refresh including caliper slide check. Additionally, given the age of the vehicle, it is prudent to check the condition of the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing even if tread depth is adequate, inspect the exhaust system for corrosion around the rear silencer and mounting rubbers, verify the age and state of charge of the 12 volt battery, and confirm that brake fluid and coolant have been changed within the last two to three years as these degrade with calendar age rather than mileage. A final check of the service book records to confirm regular oil and filter changes at appropriate intervals would provide valuable reassurance for a vehicle now in its sixteenth year.