2010 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · ML60 WHW

The most recent DVSA examination on 19 December 2025 resulted in a pass, although the inspector recorded a minor defect for reduced light intensity on the nearside rear stop lamp, together with several advisories covering a slight play in the offside front track rod end ball joint, a non-excessive oil leak, surface wear and pitting on the front brake discs, and a nail embedded in the nearside rear tyre. Looking at the broader pattern from 2021 onwards, the vehicle has alternated between pass and fail outcomes in successive years, with the failures consistently involving straightforward lighting issues such as inoperative position lamps, registration plate lamps, rear fog lamps, and indicator colour defects, the latter suggesting either aged lamp units or a previous poor-quality bulb replacement. While the test history does not indicate any catastrophic structural or mechanical failures, the recurring advisory pattern around front suspension components, brake components, and service brake fluctuation across multiple examinations suggests a gradually worsening rather than improving maintenance trend, with the front axle and braking system being the principal areas of accumulating wear that warrant close attention. With a recorded mileage of 119,071 miles over a 16-year life, this Clio has covered approximately 7,442 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and usage category. There are no dramatic gaps in the recorded MOT history that would imply prolonged periods of standing, nor is there evidence of exceptionally high annual mileage that might accelerate wear on the clutch, gearbox, or drivetrain. This average usage pattern means the vehicle has experienced consistent but moderate mechanical loading, with the typical wear items such as brake pads, tyres, suspension bushes, and exhaust components likely to be approaching or already at replacement intervals given the mileage accumulated. The relatively gentle annual rate also suggests that consumable degradation from age rather than pure mileage is becoming more relevant, particularly for rubber components, brake discs, and fluid condition. Given the recurring advisories on the front suspension and steering geometry, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the condition of the front anti-roll bar linkages, the lower suspension arm rear bushes, and the track rod end ball joint. During a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking noises from the front axle when traversing speed bumps, rough road surfaces, or when turning at low speed, as these are classic indicators of worn bushes or play in the steering linkages. The advisories from 2021 noted wear in both bottom arm rear bushes, and the 2025 advisory on the track rod end ball joint suggests progressive deterioration that will likely require replacement in the near term. Additionally, the offside rear brake excessively binding failure from December 2023 indicates a previous issue with the rear brake caliper or mechanism, and this should be specifically checked by ensuring the rear wheels rotate freely when the handbrake is released, listening for any scraping or grinding from the rear brakes, and confirming that the vehicle does not pull to one side under moderate braking. Beyond the recurring advisory items, the 2025 advisory concerning pitted and scored front brake discs is significant on a vehicle of this age and mileage, as it suggests the discs are nearing the end of their serviceable thickness and will require machining or replacement if not already addressed. On a test drive, any vibration through the steering wheel or brake pedal shudder under braking would confirm that the discs are sufficiently worn to warrant replacement. The noted oil leak, while described as non-excessive, should be monitored by checking under the vehicle after standing for signs of fresh oil residue, and the engine bay should be inspected for the source of the leak, which on Renault Clios is commonly associated with the camshaft cover gasket or sump area. Prospective buyers should also conduct age-related checks irrespective of the MOT record, including a thorough inspection of all tyre sidewalls for perishing or cracking given the 16-year age of the vehicle, verification of the 12V battery health as batteries typically require replacement every four to six years, confirmation that brake fluid and coolant have been recently serviced as these degrade on a calendar basis rather than purely through usage, and a check for corrosion in the wheel arches, sills, and underbody which are common MOT failure points on vehicles of this vintage operating in UK conditions.