2013 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · PL13 LCP

The most recent MOT test on 26 January 2026 resulted in a Pass, although three advisories were recorded, namely an offside front brake pipe noted as corroded and covered in grease or other material, an offside rear service brake described as binding but not excessively, and an offside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit at 3mm and worn on its edge. Looking at the broader history, the vehicle has demonstrated a stable to mildly worsening maintenance trend. The 2024 test was completely clean with no advisories, but the two subsequent tests have accumulated repeated brake pipe corrosion advisories on the offside front, along with tyre wear and binding brake observations. A particularly significant event was the Dangerous failure on 22 December 2022 due to a leaking offside rear brake pipe, which was subsequently rectified to enable a Pass the following day. The recurrence of brake pipe corrosion advisories since 2021 suggests that the underlying corrosion issue has not been fully resolved, and this warrants close inspection. With 83,163 miles recorded over approximately 13 years, the vehicle has covered roughly 6,400 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and consistent with average commuter or mixed-use driving. There are no significant gaps in the MOT history that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, and the mileage progression between tests appears regular rather than indicating either unusually light use or excessive high-mileage accumulation. This pattern of consistent usage is mechanically favourable, as it reduces the risk of standing-related defects such as seized brake calipers, deteriorated brake fluid from lack of circulation, and tyre perishing from inactivity, whilst also meaning that wear-sensitive components like suspension bushes, exhaust mounts, and drivetrain items have been exercised regularly. The recurring brake pipe corrosion is the most pressing area for a prospective buyer to investigate. Given that an offside rear brake pipe was deemed Dangerous due to a hydraulic leak as recently as late 2022, and that the offside front brake pipe has now appeared on advisories across three consecutive tests spanning 2021 to 2026, the entire braking hydraulic system should be physically inspected for signs of corrosion, weeping joints, and the condition of any replacement sections versus original metalwork. It would also be prudent to jack the vehicle and examine all visible brake pipes, including those feeding the rear drums and the flexible rubber hoses, as these are known degradation points on vehicles of this age, particularly in regions where road salt is used. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for any scraping, grinding, or squealing from the brakes, feel for pedal sponginess or excessive travel, and check whether the vehicle pulls to one side under braking, which could indicate a binding caliper or uneven hydraulic pressure consistent with the binding rear brake advisory. The offside rear tyre, noted at 3mm on its edge, will require immediate replacement, and uneven inner or outer edge wear across the axle typically points to misalignment, worn suspension components, or tracking issues that should be checked. Beyond the brake system, the rear shock absorber corrosion advisory from late 2023 is worth monitoring, as corroded shock bodies can progress to seal failure and compromised damping, leading to symptoms such as rear-end instability over bumps, extended bouncing after compressions, or clonking noises from the rear suspension on uneven roads. The nearside parking brake grabbing slightly observed in 2023 is a common drum brake issue and should be checked by firmly applying and releasing the handbrake multiple times to detect any hesitation or inconsistent operation. Given the vehicle's age, irrespective of the advisory history, the buyer should also verify time-based service items including the age and condition of the 12V battery, the freshness of the brake fluid and coolant, and whether the cam belt and water pump replacement interval has been observed, as a 2013 Renault Clio with this mileage will be approaching or past its scheduled cambelt change. Inspecting the tyres for sidewall cracking and perishing, checking the exhaust for corrosion at the joints and mounting rubbers, and confirming a complete stamped service history will round out a thorough pre-purchase evaluation.