2021 Renault Clio Iconic TCE 1.0L Petrol · MM71 HMA

The 2021 Renault Clio Iconic TCE’s latest MOT test on 2025-12-09 resulted in a failure due to the front offside windscreen wiper failing to clear the glass effectively, which is a critical safety requirement. However, the preceding MOTs in 2024 and 2025 show a pattern of recurring advisories and dangerous defects, particularly concerning the front brake discs and tyre integrity. While the 2025 test’s failure was isolated to the wiper system, the earlier failures—especially those involving exposed tyre cords and worn brake discs—suggest a history of either substandard maintenance or underlying mechanical issues that have not been fully addressed. The fact that the same defects recurred in 2024 indicates either a persistent problem with the braking system or tyre management, or potentially a lack of proactive servicing to mitigate wear progression. For a buyer, this trend warrants cautious consideration, as repeated failures may point to a vehicle that has either been neglected or has fundamental wear patterns that require immediate attention. The recorded mileage of 35,597 miles for a 2021 model represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 7,119 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age and class. Such mileage does not suggest excessive wear from high annual kilometres, though it does imply that the car has been driven regularly over its five-year lifespan. However, the presence of exposed tyre cords in the 2024 MOT suggests that the tyres may have been underinflated, overused, or subjected to uneven wear patterns, which can accelerate tread degradation. Additionally, the repeated advisories on brake disc wear—even if not excessive—indicate that the braking system has experienced prolonged stress, potentially from aggressive driving, heavy loads, or frequent stops. While 35,597 miles is not excessively high for a five-year-old car, the combination of tyre and brake-related issues demands closer inspection to determine whether these were isolated incidents or signs of a broader mechanical concern. Given the recurring tyre and brake-related defects in the MOT history, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough mechanical inspection before purchase. First, verify the condition of the front tyres beyond the exposed cords, checking for uneven wear patterns, bulges, or signs of hydroplaning susceptibility. Listen for any unusual noises during a test drive, particularly when braking, as this may reveal binding calipers, warped brake discs, or hydraulic system issues. Inspect the brake discs for signs of glazing, corrosion, or uneven thickness, and ensure the brake pads are not excessively worn or glazed. The suspension should be checked for clunking noises from worn suspension bushes, coil springs, or strut mounts, as these can contribute to inconsistent tyre wear and braking performance. Additionally, examine the windscreen wiper mechanism for proper operation and cleanliness, as the 2025 MOT failure highlights the importance of effective windscreen clearance. For the Renault Clio Iconic TCE, given its age and the mileage history, the buyer should also address several age-and-mileage-appropriate checks. The tyres, while showing some wear, should be replaced if the remaining tread depth is below the legal minimum of 1.6mm, or if there are signs of significant internal damage from exposed cords or cracks. The brake system should be serviced promptly, with brake fluid flushed and inspected for contamination, and brake components such as calipers and brake hoses checked for leaks or wear. The vehicle’s 12V battery should be tested for voltage and capacity, particularly if the car has been left standing for extended periods, as standing corrosion or battery degradation can lead to electrical system failures. Fluid levels—oil, coolant, and brake fluid—should be topped up and checked for degradation, with a full fluid change recommended every two years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first, to prevent sludge buildup and system failure. Lastly, the exhaust emissions system should be inspected for leaks or blockages, as the Clio Iconic’s catalytic converter and oxygen sensors are critical for both performance and MOT compliance. If the vehicle has not been serviced in line with the manufacturer’s schedule, a comprehensive service history check should be conducted to confirm the timing of oil changes, filter replacements, and other scheduled maintenance tasks.