2017 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · SE17 MXR

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the most recent inspection indicates a trend of worsening mechanical wear and tear. While it passed the test in March 2026 at 67,197 miles, the tester identified five separate defects that were not present in previous years. This shift from a clean record in 2025 to a list of suspension, braking, and lighting issues suggests the car is entering a phase where aging components are requiring proactive replacement. The mileage pattern is consistent with a nine-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 7,500 miles per year. Between the 2022 test at 36,135 miles and the 2026 test at 67,197 miles, the car covered over 31,000 miles. This represents a steady usage profile, though the gap between 2022 and 2023 shows a period of lower activity, which likely explains the degradation of rubber-based components noted in the later reports. A buyer must prioritize a physical inspection of the suspension and braking systems. The March 2026 test flagged a nearside front suspension arm ball joint with play and oil misting on both rear shock absorbers, indicating early-stage component failure that will soon require total replacement. Furthermore, the offside rear service brake is currently binding, which necessitates a caliper and slider pin inspection to prevent uneven wear, following the thin front pads and discs noted back in 2023. Attention should also be paid to the tyres. Records of cracking and perishing on the nearside rear tyre appeared in both 2024 and 2026, suggesting the vehicle may have sat for long periods or been exposed to harsh conditions despite the low annual mileage. The inoperative registration plate lamp is a minor electrical fix, but the combination of suspension play and binding brakes indicates the vehicle needs a comprehensive mechanical service to ensure long-term reliability.