2021 Renault Clio Iconic TCE 1.0L Petrol · MM71 HYH

The 2021 Renault Clio Iconic TCE received its latest MOT on 30th December 2025, which resulted in a passing grade despite multiple advisories that indicate ongoing issues requiring attention. While the vehicle passed the test, the presence of recurring advisories—particularly the front brake imbalance and worn brake discs—suggests a maintenance trend that has not been fully resolved. The fact that the same issues were not flagged in the prior MOT on 2nd December 2024 implies either inconsistent servicing or a gradual progression of wear, which could escalate if left unaddressed. The advisory regarding the front offside inner tyre approaching the legal limit on edge wear also points to a potential alignment or camber issue, further warranting prompt investigation. The recorded mileage of 33,557 miles for a vehicle aged five years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 6,711 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the absence of a clear maintenance schedule or service history suggests either infrequent use with periods of prolonged standing or a more active driving regimen that has accelerated wear on consumables and mechanical components. Prolonged idling or infrequent driving can exacerbate issues such as brake disc corrosion, fluid degradation, and tyre perishing, while higher mileage may indicate more frequent exposure to road conditions that stress suspension, tyres, and drivetrain elements. The lack of a service log also raises concerns about potential calendar-based fluid degradation, such as brake fluid drying out or coolant system corrosion, which can compromise long-term reliability. Given the advisories from the 2025 MOT, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the braking system, focusing on the front brake discs for signs of uneven wear, pitting, or scoring, and checking for any binding or excessive heat discolouration that could indicate friction material failure or warping. During a test drive, listen for abnormal brake pulsation or shuddering, which may signal warped discs or soft calipers, and monitor for a reduced braking response or uneven stopping power. The brake imbalance advisory suggests the discs may not be evenly spaced, leading to uneven wear; this could be confirmed by visually inspecting the disc surfaces for consistent thickness or checking for lateral play in the brake calipers. Additionally, verify that the brake fluid level is adequate and that there are no leaks from the master cylinder or brake lines, as low fluid levels can exacerbate brake performance issues. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should also assess the vehicle’s suspension and alignment, as the tyre wear advisory implies potential misalignment or incorrect camber settings. Inspect the front suspension components, including coil springs, strut mounts, and suspension bushes, for signs of wear, cracking, or excessive play, which could contribute to uneven tyre wear or clunking noises over bumps. Check the tyre tread depth on all tyres, particularly the offside front inner tyre, for signs of excessive wear or damage, and consider replacing any tyres nearing the legal minimum tread depth to prevent hydroplaning and ensure safe handling. For the vehicle’s age and mileage, a comprehensive service check is recommended, including a battery health assessment to rule out standing corrosion or electrical issues, and a visual inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, as emissions-related advisories in the past could indicate ongoing catalytic converter or manifold wear. Finally, verify the service book for any scheduled fluid changes, such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, which should have been replaced according to Renault’s recommended intervals, even if the vehicle has not been driven extensively.