2014 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · MM64 OFZ

The most recent MOT inspection on 27 October 2025 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance trend shows signs of progressive deterioration rather than stability. While the vehicle has successfully passed its tests, the frequency of advisories and failures regarding consumables has increased in recent years. The transition from a clean MOT in 2024 to multiple advisories and a dangerous failure in 2025 suggests that maintenance is becoming reactive rather than preventative. Specifically, the recurring issues with tyre condition and drive shaft components indicate that critical wear items are being left to reach the point of failure or near-failure before being addressed. With a recorded mileage of 81,107 miles over approximately twelve years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 6,759 miles per year. This is considered low to moderate annual usage, which is typical for a small hatchback used for local commuting or short trips. While lower mileage generally implies less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can often lead to other issues such as component perishing due to age rather than distance. In this specific case, the low mileage appears to correlate with the tyre defects recorded, as rubber compounds degrade and crack over time regardless of how many miles they have travelled. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the drivetrain and tyre health during a physical inspection and test drive. The MOT history highlights a recurring issue with the constant velocity boots on the nearside and offside front drive shafts. The most recent report notes these boots are severely deteriorated. If these boots are not replaced promptly, grease will escape and grit will enter the joints, leading to expensive drive shaft replacements. On a test drive, listen for clicking or popping noises when turning the steering wheel at low speeds, which would indicate that the CV joints have already sustained damage. Furthermore, the repeated advisories for tyre cracking and perishing suggest the rubber is reaching the end of its chemical life. Inspect the sidewalls of all four tyres for any signs of bulging, deep cracks, or uneven wear patterns, and ensure that all tyres are relatively recent in manufacture to avoid structural failure. Beyond the recorded defects, the vehicle's age and usage profile necessitate a thorough check of the braking system and suspension. Given the previous major failure involving a fractured coil spring, you should inspect the suspension components for signs of corrosion or heavy wear, and listen for any clunks or knocks when driving over uneven surfaces. Check the brake discs for excessive corrosion or pitting, which can occur if the car has been standing for periods, and ensure there is no brake shudder when applying pressure at speed, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that fluid changes, such as brake fluid and engine oil, have been performed on a calendar basis rather than solely based on mileage, as time-based degradation is a significant factor for a vehicle of this age.