2016 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · SD16 NDN

A pattern of emerging wear is the defining mechanical story of this 2016 Renault Clio, with the most recent test on 2 June 2026 returning a pass but flagging a rear tyre showing signs of damage and perishing. Across seven recorded tests since 2021, the vehicle has passed five times and failed twice, with both failures being relatively minor in nature, involving a non-functioning rear stop lamp in 2023 and a malfunctioning tyre pressure monitoring system in 2025. However, the advisory history reveals a gradual accumulation of component wear that warrants close attention, particularly on the front brake discs, nearside rear tyre, and front suspension ball joint, with the latter two advisories recurring on consecutive test events in 2025 and 2026 respectively. This trajectory suggests the vehicle is moving from a clean roadworthiness record into a phase where consumable and suspension components are beginning to demand intervention. The recorded mileage of 55,760 miles over a ten-year ownership period equates to an average annual accumulation of approximately 5,576 miles, which sits at the lower end of typical usage for a vehicle of this age and class. There are no significant gaps in the testing history that would suggest prolonged periods off the road, with annual or near-annual tests consistently recorded. Lower annual mileage can reduce wear on major drivetrain components but often correlates with shorter journeys that may not allow the engine, exhaust system, and braking components to fully reach operating temperature, potentially accelerating corrosion in the exhaust and underbody areas. Conversely, reduced high-speed motorway mileage may preserve suspension and braking components, though the advisory pattern suggests wear is still progressing. Buyers should focus their inspection on the specific components flagged in the advisory history, particularly the nearside front suspension arm ball joint which was noted with slight play in 2025 and requires careful assessment for progression. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed bumps, uneven road surfaces, and during full-lock steering manoeuvres, and feel for any vagueness or wandering in the steering response. The front brake discs were flagged as worn, pitted, and scored on both inner faces in 2025, so the vehicle should be tested for brake pedal judder under firm application, any vibration through the steering wheel during braking, and an inspection of the discs for visible lipping or corrosion pitting should be requested. Given that the nearside rear tyre has been repeatedly flagged for damage and perishing, all four tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking, tread depth compliance, and uneven wear patterns that might indicate alignment or suspension geometry issues. The rear shock absorbers were noted with light oil misting in 2021, and while this has not recurred in subsequent advisories, it is worth checking the shock absorber bodies for fresh oil residue and pressing down firmly on each rear corner to confirm the dampers effectively control rebound without excessive bouncing. The tyre pressure monitoring system failure in 2025 should be verified as rectified, and the rear lighting should be thoroughly checked for all functions. Finally, although no structural corrosion advisories have been recorded, the underbody and suspension components should be examined on a ramp for surface rust, particularly given the low-mileage usage profile which can paradoxically accelerate corrosion in components that frequently encounter moisture without sustained operation to dry them out.