2016 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · ML66 VLD

The defining mechanical thread across this Clio's MOT history is a consistent pattern of front brake disc deterioration that has gradually escalated into more serious scoring and pitting, culminating in the most recent pass on 2 September 2025 where both front discs were flagged as worn, pitted or scored. The progression is worth noting: the front discs were first noted as worn in 2023, then both inner discs were recorded as pitted in 2024 alongside a low coolant level advisory and a kerbed nearside front tyre, and finally both front discs were again highlighted in 2025. There was also a single failure in September 2023 caused by a fractured offside front coil spring and an offside headlamp aim defect, both rectified for the pass the following day. The remainder of the record shows clean passes in 2019, 2020 and 2022, with the 2022 test carrying advisories for thinning front brake pads on both sides. Taken together, the record demonstrates passable roadworthiness but with a clear and ongoing front brake wear pattern that a buyer should not overlook. With 30,343 miles recorded over roughly ten years, this Clio has averaged around 3,000 miles annually, which is notably low for its age. The mileage progression between tests appears steady rather than showing any unusual gaps or jumps, suggesting the vehicle has been in continuous light use rather than laid up for extended periods. Lower annual mileage of this nature typically reduces wear on major drivetrain components and clutch assemblies, but it can also mean that consumable items such as brake discs and pads have aged through corrosion and surface pitting rather than through high friction use, which is consistent with the recurring disc advisories seen here. Tyres, however, are still subject to perishing and sidewall damage from age regardless of mileage, and the 2024 advisories for cracking on the nearside rear tyre and kerb damage to the nearside front tyre align with this. The coolant level advisory in 2024 is also worth flagging, as low coolant can point to a slow leak, a neglected refill, or historical air ingress in the cooling system. For a prospective buyer, the front braking system is the obvious priority. On a test drive, the car should be brought up to speed from around 40 mph with a firm brake application; any judder felt through the steering wheel or brake pedal suggests the pitted discs are warping under heat and may need replacement rather than just a pad swap. Listen for any grinding or squealing that might indicate the pads have worn down to the metal against the already damaged disc surface, and visually inspect both front discs for a pronounced lip on the outer edge and visible scoring or rust pitting across the braking surface. Given the 2024 tyre advisories, all four tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking, bulges, or kerbing damage, particularly on the nearside pair, and the age of the current tyres verified. The fractured coil spring recorded in 2023 should prompt a check for any knocking or clonking over uneven road surfaces, particularly from the offside front corner, as secondary damage to the strut top mount or suspension arm can follow a spring failure. Beyond these specific items, the low coolant advisory from 2024 warrants a careful look under the bonnet before purchase. The expansion tank should be checked when cold for any signs of staining or residue below the tank suggesting a leak, and the level itself verified against the maximum mark with the engine cold and on level ground. Any visible dampness around the coolant hoses, radiator, or water pump area would merit further investigation. The headlamp aim defect from the 2023 failure should also be confirmed as resolved, which can be checked simply by observing the beam pattern on a flat wall at night or in a darkened garage. Overall, the mechanical record shows a vehicle that has remained roadworthy across its tests, but the repeated brake disc deterioration and the single suspension failure are the two areas where a hands-on inspection and a deliberate test drive are well justified.