2008 Renault Twingo 1.1L Petrol · SH08 XUV

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance history reveals a trend of reactive repairs rather than proactive upkeep. The most recent MOT test in May 2026 at 116,105 miles passed following a failure due to a structural tear in the nearside rear tyre. While the car is currently legal, the persistent oil leak that has appeared in every test since 2022 indicates a long-term defect that has not been successfully addressed, despite the tester noting it as non-excessive. At 116,105 miles over 18 years, the Tingoo averages approximately 6,450 miles per year, which is consistent with typical light use for a city car. The usage pattern appears steady, with a gap of roughly 5,000 miles between April 2025 and May 2026, and another 7,800 miles between 2024 and 2025. This low annual mileage has not prevented the degradation of rubber-based components, as evidenced by frequent failures of suspension and tyre-related items. A buyer must scrutinise the front end suspension, as the record shows a recurring history of worn ball joints and anti-roll bar links. The tester flagged excessive wear on suspension arm and anti-roll bar joints in 2020, 2024, and 2025, suggesting the steering geometry is reaching the end of its functional life. Additionally, the corrosion on brake pipes noted in 2020 and 2022 requires a thorough physical inspection to ensure the rust has not progressed to a point that would lead to a hydraulic failure. The persistent oil leak noted in recent years warrants a professional look to determine if it originates from a simple gasket or a more costly engine seal. Given the history of perishing tyres and worn wipers, the previous owner has likely neglected routine consumable maintenance until an MOT failure forced action. An inspection of the chassis for structural integrity and surface corrosion is essential, as the record shows a history of vulnerability to environmental damage over its age.