2013 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · SA63 FVC

The most recent MOT, carried out on 7 February 2024, was passed with no recorded defects, only a series of advisories concerning wear and corrosion. Compared with the earlier record, the vehicle shows a mixed trend: serious failures were recorded in 2019 and early 2022 (excessively worn front suspension ball joints and a non‑functioning headlamp), but those items have not re‑appeared as failures in the latest test, suggesting that remedial work may have been undertaken. Nonetheless, the recurrence of front‑suspension‑related advisories and the persistence of corrosion notes indicate that the underlying condition is still borderline and warrants close inspection. At 100,020 mi on a 13‑year‑old 2013 Renault Clio the average annual mileage works out to roughly 7,700 mi, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage accumulation that would point to severe over‑use, nor are there large gaps suggesting prolonged storage. The mileage therefore aligns with moderate, regular usage, meaning that wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components is likely to be age‑related rather than the result of extreme mileage stress. When you examine the car, give particular attention to the front suspension. Check both ball joints for any play by rocking the wheel at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions and listening for clunking noises during a low‑speed drive over bumps. The advisory about slight play on the nearside ball joint and the previous major wear on the offside joint suggest that replacement may be imminent if not already carried out. Inspect the front MacPherson strut and rear shock absorber casings for corrosion; rusted housings can lead to fluid leakage and loss of damping, which is felt as a spongy or uneven ride. The front brake discs were noted as pitted and scored – examine the disc surface for deep grooves and feel for any brake pedal pulsation or shudder, especially under hard braking, as these are signs that the discs may need resurfacing or replacement. Tyre edges were close to the legal limit in 2023, so verify tread depth across the width and look for sidewall cracking that can be a symptom of age rather than mileage. Beyond the specific advisories, a vehicle of this age should be checked for general time‑related degradation. Verify that the 12 V battery holds a good charge and that the terminals are free of corrosion, as prolonged standing can sap battery health. Examine all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – and consider that they may have exceeded their calendar service intervals and could benefit from a flush. Look for any signs of exhaust system rust beyond superficial coating, particularly around joints and the muffler, as corrosion can lead to leaks and increased emissions. Finally, confirm that the headlamp units operate correctly on both dipped and main beams, and that the interior and exterior lighting, wipers and seat‑belt mechanisms are functional, to ensure the car meets current safety expectations.