2016 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · NE02 AND

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Renault Clio recorded a passing outcome on 2026-08-18, with a single minor defect noted under the constant velocity (CV) joint boot on the offside front drive shaft. This marks a significant improvement from the previous year’s failure, where the front brake pads were dangerously worn to below the legal minimum thickness of 1.5 mm. While the 2024 failure was severe, the subsequent tests since then have shown no further brake-related issues, suggesting either corrective action was taken or the wear has stabilised. The advisory for tyre wear close to the legal limit on both near- and offside front tyres remains present, indicating ongoing monitoring of tread depth, but this does not currently affect roadworthiness. The overall maintenance trend appears to be stabilising, with no recurring failures beyond the CV joint boot deterioration, which is a common wear item in high-mileage vehicles and typically requires replacement once the boot is fully compromised. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 86,957 miles at the time of this assessment represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,696 miles per year, which is typical for a ten-year-old Renault Clio, particularly if it has been used in a mixed or seasonal driving environment. Lower mileage could suggest periods of inactivity, such as long-term storage or reduced operational demands, whereas higher mileage might indicate more aggressive use, leading to accelerated wear on components like tyres, brakes, suspension, and fluids. Given the CV joint boot failure and the consistent annual mileage, it is plausible that the vehicle has undergone regular driving, which could have contributed to the wear observed in the CV boot and the front tyre edge wear. However, the lack of rapid mileage accumulation over recent years suggests that the owner has likely maintained a steady, if not overly demanding, usage profile. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front brakes and the CV joint assembly, given the historical failures and advisories. Upon inspection, check the front brake pads for even wear and ensure they have not thinned further beyond the 1.5 mm legal minimum, which would necessitate immediate replacement. Listen for any unusual grinding or squealing noises during braking, as this may indicate worn pads or warped discs. The front brake discs should also be examined for pitting, scoring, or excessive thickness reduction, which could compromise braking performance or require disc replacement. The CV joint boot on the offside front drive shaft must be visually inspected for leaks or cracks, and any signs of oil leakage around the boot or excessive play in the joint should prompt immediate replacement, as CV joints failing can lead to severe driveline damage. Test the vehicle on a road surface to listen for any clunking noises from the suspension, particularly around the CV joints and front wheel bearings, as well as uneven tyre wear patterns that could indicate misalignment or suspension component failure. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also assess the vehicle’s overall condition for signs of standing corrosion, particularly around the front wheel arches, underbody, and wheel wells, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate rust formation in these areas. Inspect the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur even with low mileage due to age-related degradation of the rubber compound. The 12-volt battery should be tested for charge capacity and terminal corrosion, as older vehicles may experience reduced reliability or failure if the battery has not been maintained. Fluid levels, including the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, should be checked for contamination or degradation, with a recommendation to replace them if they have not been serviced within the manufacturer’s recommended intervals—typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every two to three years, whichever comes first. Additionally, verify the service history for the CV joint boot replacement and any brake work performed, as this will help confirm the vehicle’s maintenance record and ensure that past issues have been addressed. Finally, a thorough visual and functional inspection of the exhaust system for leaks, rust, or structural integrity is advisable, as emissions-related failures can occur in older vehicles, particularly if they have been used in areas with higher pollution levels.