2016 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · OV66 YEE

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT in September 2025, although this followed a failure due to a fractured nearside front coil spring. While the overall history shows a consistent pass rate since 2020, the recent failure indicates that the vehicle is now susceptible to age-related component fatigue. The maintenance trend remains generally stable, but the shift from simple adjustments, such as headlamp aiming in 2024, to structural suspension failure suggests that wear-and-tear items are beginning to reach the end of their natural lifespan. With a recorded mileage of 25,154 miles over approximately ten years, this Clio has been used significantly less than the national average, averaging roughly 2,515 miles per year. While this suggests minimal wear on the engine internals and drivetrain, such low usage often introduces a different set of mechanical risks associated with prolonged periods of standing. Low-mileage vehicles are frequently prone to the degradation of rubber components and the accumulation of moisture or corrosion within braking systems and fluid reservoirs. During a physical inspection, particular attention should be paid to the tyres. Although rear tyre edge wear was noted as an advisory in 2023, you must check the current sidewalls for fine cracking or perishing, as tyres often expire due to age before the tread wears down. On the test drive, listen for any remaining suspension knocks or clunks from the front end to ensure the coil spring replacement was carried out correctly and that the associated suspension bushes are not perished. Check for any shuddering under braking, which could indicate brake disc corrosion or binding calipers resulting from infrequent use. Finally, it is critical to verify the service history to ensure that engine oil and other essential fluids have been changed according to the manufacturer's time intervals rather than just mileage markers. Oil degrades over time regardless of distance traveled, and neglected intervals can lead to sludge buildup. Inspect the 12V battery for signs of age or leakage, as low-use vehicles often suffer from premature battery failure. A thorough check of the brake pedal feel and a visual inspection of the fluid levels will help confirm if the vehicle has been maintained in a roadworthy state during its periods of inactivity.