2021 Renault Clio Iconic TCE 1.0L Petrol · MM71 HMH

The 2021 Renault Clio Iconic TCE has recently passed its most recent MOT on 2025-11-24 with no recorded defects, following a previous failure in late 2024 that included critical tyre damage and significant brake advisories. While the vehicle’s most recent test was clean, the 2025 failure highlights persistent issues with front brake components and rear tyre integrity that require careful attention. The pattern suggests a maintenance trend that has stabilised post-failure, but the advisories from the previous test indicate ongoing wear that has not yet reached the point of failure, implying either proactive servicing or a vehicle that has been managed to avoid more severe defects. The fact that the 2024 MOT was clean before the 2025 failure may reflect either a temporary reprieve in wear progression or a less rigorous inspection focus on those specific components at that time. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 30,182 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,036 miles per year, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for a five-year-old car. This mileage does not suggest either extreme light use—potentially leading to standing corrosion or fluid degradation—or excessive wear from high-mileage accumulation. However, the gap between the 2024 and 2025 MOTs, spanning nearly a year, could indicate periods of reduced or stationary use, which may have contributed to minor but critical issues like tyre perishing or brake component wear becoming more apparent. For a vehicle of this age, the annual mileage is reasonable, but the presence of the rear tyre failure in 2025 suggests that the tyre’s original condition or installation quality may have been compromised, warranting further scrutiny of tyre history and possible rotation or replacement planning. Given the recent MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front brake system and rear tyres. The advisories from the 2025 failure indicate that the front brake discs are wearing unevenly, which could lead to reduced braking efficiency or premature pad replacement if left unaddressed. Symptoms to watch for during a test drive include a soft or spongy brake pedal, uneven brake pad wear visible on the rim, or a grinding noise when braking, which could signal disc warping or metal-on-metal contact. The nearside rear tyre failure—with a cut reaching the ply—is a serious defect that mandates immediate replacement, as such damage compromises tyre integrity and safety. The offside rear tyre’s slight cracking or perishing should also be addressed promptly, as this could lead to further deterioration or blowouts under stress. Beyond the immediate defects, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and functional components. Given the vehicle’s age and the potential for standing periods, check for signs of corrosion on the chassis, exhaust system, and underbody components, particularly around the wheel arches, brake calipers, and suspension mounts. The front suspension bushes and coil springs should be examined for stiffness or excessive play, as wear in these areas can lead to clunking noises during cornering or road roughness. Additionally, verify the condition of the 12V battery and associated electrical systems, as prolonged inactivity can cause terminals to oxidise or cables to loosen, leading to poor starting or electrical faults. For fluid systems, consider checking the brake fluid level and condition, as standing fluid can absorb moisture and degrade over time, reducing braking performance. Lastly, inspect the tyre sidewall for any signs of age-related perishing, such as cracking or dry rot, which can compromise tyre safety even if the tread depth is legally compliant. If the vehicle has a service history, verify that the manufacturer-recommended fluid changes—particularly for the engine oil, coolant, and differential fluid—have been completed according to the 2021 model’s specifications.