2013 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · SJ13 OBL

The 2013 Renault Clio’s roadworthiness appears to be deteriorating rather than stable, as evidenced by the October 2025 test passing only after a failure just seven days earlier. The October 9, 2025, MOT revealed critical issues including front brake discs worn and pitted, multiple brake pipes corroded and obscured by grease, and front tyres at the legal tread limit. Just one week prior, on October 2, the vehicle failed due to these same brake and tyre concerns, alongside a steering rack with excessive free play and a drag link end ball joint showing slight play. These recurring faults suggest a pattern of deferred maintenance and potential structural degradation, particularly in the braking and steering systems. Mileage accumulation averages approximately 4,995 miles annually over its 13-year lifespan, indicating relatively light use. The odometer rose from 59,727 miles in October 2024 to 64,936 in October 2025, reflecting a 5,209-mile increase in the most recent year. A notable jump occurred between October 2022 (47,987 miles) and October 2023 (53,437 miles), marking a 5,450-mile surge in a single year. This suggests either increased usage during that period or a potential gap in MOT testing, though records show consistent annual tests. The low overall mileage may indicate the vehicle was stored for extended periods, which can accelerate corrosion and component degradation despite reduced wear. Prospective buyers should prioritise inspection of the braking system, focusing on the condition of the front brake discs, brake pipes, and calipers. The persistent corrosion on brake pipes, some obscured by grease, raises concerns about rust progression and potential failure risks. The steering rack and drag link ball joint issues flagged in 2025 demand scrutiny for excessive free play or wear. Additionally, the fractured coil spring noted in October 2023 and the excessively worn suspension ball joint from 2021 highlight the need to examine suspension components for cracks, looseness, or misalignment. The front tyres’ proximity to the legal limit and the exhaust leak from 2023 further underscore the importance of verifying these systems in person before purchase.