2018 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · ML68 ABK

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 21 March 2024, resulted in a Pass, though it carries an advisory noting that the front inner road wheel is slightly distorted on both sides. This item warrants close attention, as a distorted wheel can give rise to tyre wear irregularities, vibration through the steering wheel at speed, and potential imbalances that compromise ride quality and braking stability. Looking at the broader MOT history, the vehicle has consistently passed its annual tests since 2021, with no recorded failures since a dangerous tyre and wiper defect was identified in October 2021. The maintenance trend therefore appears stable, with the 2024 advisory being the only outstanding mechanical note. The presence of a tyre structure failure flagged as dangerous at the previous test would suggest that tyre quality and condition deserve particular scrutiny, though the fact that subsequent tests have passed cleanly indicates remedial action was taken. With 40,952 miles recorded over an eight-year period, this Clio has averaged roughly 5,119 miles annually, which is markedly below typical usage for a vehicle of this age and segment. Such low mileage can reflect genuine light use, but it also raises the likelihood of extended periods of standing or only short journeys being undertaken, both of which carry specific mechanical implications. Short-trip use prevents the engine and exhaust system from reaching full operating temperature, encouraging moisture accumulation in the oil and potential corrosion within the exhaust and catalytic converter, while long standing periods can lead to brake disc surface corrosion, seizing or binding of brake calipers, and degradation of flexible components such as ageing tyres and 12V battery cells. The buyer should be alert to evidence of regular longer runs in the service history. For a prospective buyer, a careful physical inspection should begin with the wheels and tyres, as the advisory on the distorted front inner road wheel and the earlier dangerous rear tyre failure both point to this area as historically problematic. Look for uneven or stepped wear across the tread, check the sidewalls for cracking or perishing consistent with age rather than mileage, and confirm that all tyres are of matching specification and within legal tread depth. Inspect the front wheels closely for visible lateral or radial run-out that would indicate the distortion is more than cosmetic. On a test drive, listen for any steering wheel vibration or vagueness, and feel for any pulling to one side under braking or steady cruising, which could suggest the distorted wheels are contributing to instability or that a caliper is seizing. Beyond the recorded defects, the low annual mileage profile demands attention to several age-related items that an MOT test does not necessarily cover. The 12V battery is particularly vulnerable to sulphation from irregular charging, so its age and cranking performance should be verified, ideally with a drop test. Brake discs, despite showing no wear advisories, can suffer from severe surface corrosion and lipping from standing, which manifests as brake shudder or grabbing on first application. Fluid servicing should be confirmed through the service book, as brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and engine coolant loses protective additives regardless of mileage, typically requiring renewal on a calendar basis of two to four years. Finally, examine all rubber and polymer components, including suspension bushes, drive belts, and coolant hoses, for signs of perishing from age rather than wear, and verify that the cam belt or timing chain service intervals have been observed according to time rather than mileage alone.