2010 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · RF10 MSV

The most recent DVSA examination on 15 October 2025 recorded a PASS with no defects, which is encouraging on the surface; however, this follows a very recent FAIL on 13 October 2025 in which the nearside rear coil spring was fractured and the offside rear wheel bearing was found to be rough when rotated, both categorised as Major defects. These items appear to have been addressed in the two days between tests, which raises a question worth pursuing with the vendor regarding the nature of the rectification, whether genuine Renault OE components were used, and if the original cause of the broken spring (for example, corrosion weakening or an impact) has been fully identified. Looking at the history more broadly, the maintenance trend is not stable. In 2022 a Nearside Front suspension arm ball joint was flagged as excessively worn along with a Dangerous defect concerning the offside front anti-roll bar linkage, then in 2024 the nearside front track rod end ball joint was found with excessive play and the offside front suspension arm ball joint was again excessively worn. This recurring pattern of front suspension and steering wear across multiple tests is more consistent with a deteriorating trend than an isolated repair, and although the latest pass is clean, it should be interpreted with caution given the rapid turnover of steering and suspension consumables within a short interval. With 110,050 miles recorded on a 2010 vehicle, the Clio is covering approximately 6,800 miles per year, which sits broadly in line with the national average for a car of this age. The recorded mileages across tests do not suggest long periods of standing unused, so calendar-based degradation of rubbers and seals from inactivity is less of a concern here than mechanical wear from regular service. Conversely, the accumulation of 110k miles on a small Renault of this vintage places notable wear on the clutch, dual mass flywheel if diesel, alternator, starter motor, water pump, timing belt or chain depending on specification, and the catalytic converter and exhaust system. Any gaps in the service history between recorded mileages should be questioned, and a documented timing belt replacement interval verified, as neglect in this area on a high-mileage Clio is a common cause of major engine damage. From a buyer inspection perspective, the recurring front suspension and steering defects are the single most important area to examine. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocks over uneven surfaces, particularly from the front, and pay close attention to vague steering, wandering at speed, or vibrations through the wheel which could indicate perished bushes, worn drop links, or tired top mountings. Visually inspect the front suspension arms, ball joints, track rod ends, and anti-roll bar bushes for any fresh grease, recent welding, or evidence of cheap pattern parts, as the frequency of replacement suggests the vehicle may have been driven hard or over poorly maintained roads. Ask for invoices confirming recent replacement of the rear coil spring and rear wheel bearing, and check that the wheel bearing is not running hot shortly after setting off, which would suggest an inadequate repair. A thorough inspection on a ramp is highly advisable to confirm there is no play in any of the recently replaced or adjacent components. Equally important for a sixteen year old Clio at this mileage are the items that MOT testing does not fully cover. Brake fluid should be renewed every two to three years regardless of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature, and coolant should have been changed on a calendar basis; verify both with the service record. The 12V battery is likely due for replacement if it has not been changed in the last four to five years, and a weak battery can produce a cascade of electrical faults on these vehicles. Inspect the exhaust system for corrosion at the box joints, mounting rubbers, and the rear silencer, as sixteen year old underbody components in the UK climate are commonly perforated even on cars with reasonable mileage. Check the tyres not only for tread depth but for sidewall perishing and cracking from age, confirm the age code on the sidewall, and examine the spare. Finally, look for oil leaks around the cam cover gasket, examine the underside for corrosion particularly around the rear axle and suspension mounting points, and ensure the cambelt or chain service interval is clearly documented with an invoice, as this is the most consequential single maintenance item on a high mileage Renault of this era.