2013 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · SA63 FTC

The latest MOT test for this 2013 Renault Clio occurred on 2025-10-07 and resulted in a pass, marking a significant improvement over the vehicle’s recent history. Prior to this, the car failed in October 2024 with multiple major defects, including severe tyre damage, corroded brake pipes, and worn suspension components, alongside several advisories that had persisted or worsened over time. While the 2025 test shows no recorded defects, the pattern of recurring advisories—particularly concerning brake pipe corrosion, deteriorated drive shaft boots, and suspension wear—suggests that the vehicle has not been fully addressed in previous inspections. This trend indicates a need for proactive maintenance rather than reactive repairs, as the issues likely stem from cumulative wear and environmental exposure over its 13-year lifespan and 143,975 miles. The vehicle’s mileage of 143,975 miles at 13 years old represents a typical annual usage rate of around 11,075 miles per year, which is neither exceptionally light nor excessively heavy for this age group. However, the presence of long periods between MOT tests—such as the gap between 2022 and 2024—could imply either infrequent use or neglect in routine maintenance. Rapid mileage accumulation in certain periods might accelerate wear on consumables like brakes, suspension components, and drivetrain seals, while prolonged standing could exacerbate corrosion in brake systems and fluid degradation in hydraulic and cooling circuits. The combination of these factors means that the car’s mechanical condition is influenced by both usage intensity and maintenance discipline. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the brake system and suspension, given the recurring advisories and past failures. The corroded brake pipes and potential fluid ingress risk compromised sealing, which could lead to brake failure or fluid leaks if not serviced. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, sponginess, or a metallic grinding sound during braking, which may indicate worn brake pads, warped discs, or binding calipers. Inspect the brake discs for corrosion, pitting, or uneven wear, and check for fluid leaks around the brake master cylinder, calipers, and rear pipes. The severely deteriorated drive shaft boots from previous MOTs suggest that the CV joints are at risk of contamination, leading to bearing failure or excessive play in steering. Look for excessive play in the steering wheel or clunking noises during cornering, which may signal a failing joint or damaged boot. Beyond the mechanical issues, the vehicle’s age and mileage warrant thorough checks for signs of age-related degradation. Examine the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity and reduce tread life. Verify that the tyres meet the legal minimum tread depth and that the offside front tyre’s tear from the 2024 MOT failure has not worsened. Check the suspension for excessive sagging, clunking noises from worn bushes or springs, and any signs of rust or damage to the coil springs or strut mounts. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, corrosion, or excessive noise, as emissions-related issues could arise from prolonged exposure to moisture and exhaust gases. Additionally, given the vehicle’s age, test the 12V battery for voltage output and listen for clicking sounds when starting, as standing for prolonged periods can lead to battery discharge. Finally, ensure that all fluids—brake, coolant, and transmission—are topped up and free from contamination, as fluid degradation can accelerate wear on seals and bearings. If possible, review the service history to confirm that scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes and timing belt replacement, has been completed.