2014 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · SH14 HLE

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance history indicates a pattern of reactive rather than proactive upkeep. The most recent MOT test on 21 June 2025 at 84,161 miles showed a pass following an initial failure for headlamp alignment and brake pedal smoothness. While the car met the legal standard, the recurring failures in late 2023 suggest that components are often only addressed once they reach a failure point rather than during routine service intervals. At 84,161 miles over 12 years, the Clio has averaged approximately 7,000 miles per year, which aligns with typical low-to-moderate domestic usage. There is a significant gap between the October 2022 test at 57,188 miles and the September 2023 test at 74,192 miles, during which the vehicle covered nearly 17,000 miles. This period of higher use coincides with the most severe mechanical failures recorded, including structural wear of the suspension components and critical tyre failure. A buyer must scrutinise the front suspension closely, as the September 2023 failure flagged excessive wear on both nearside and offside front lower arm ball joints. While these were likely replaced, the simultaneous failure of both sides suggests potential age-related rubber degradation or impact-related stress. The 2023 advisory regarding inner edge tyre wear on the nearside front points to persistent alignment issues or worn suspension bushes that should be verified in person to prevent premature replacement of new tyres. The braking system also requires attention due to the parking brake efficiency failure in 2023 and the subsequent advisory regarding brake pedal smoothness in 2025. An inspector should check for uneven pad wear or inadequate adjustment of the handbrake mechanism. Given the previous history of exposed ply cords on the nearside front tyre, the current tyre set should be inspected for depth and uniform wear to ensure the owner has not again neglected basic safety-critical consumables.