2009 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · ST09 MXL

The roadworthiness of this vehicle is currently questionable due to a trend of deteriorating mechanical condition and deferred maintenance. The most recent test in June 2022 at 119,371 miles resulted in a comprehensive failure involving critical safety components across the suspension and braking systems. Since no further MOT has been recorded for nearly four years, the vehicle is likely operating without a valid certificate or has sat stationary. The historical data suggests a pattern of reactive repairs rather than a proactive preventative maintenance schedule. The vehicle has covered 119,371 miles over 17 years, averaging approximately 7,000 miles per annum. This usage level is consistent with a low-use city hatchback, but the mileage data shows a significant gap in activity. Between May 2021 and June 2022, the car covered only 5,960 miles, yet it suffered multiple mechanical failures during that short period. The low annual mileage profile often leads to accelerated degradation of rubber-based components and seized calipers, which aligns with the recorded binding brake issues and leaking shock absorbers. A buyer must conduct a rigorous physical inspection of the front-end suspension given the history of failures. The 2022 test flagged serious fluid leaks on both front shock absorbers, an offside track rod end with excessive play, and an offside lower suspension arm ball joint at risk of detachment. These faults indicate significant wear in the steering and damping geometry. Furthermore, the report of front brake pads being below the 1.5mm limit alongside imbalanced braking suggests that the previous owner ignored basic consumable requirements until they reached a point of failure. The braking system requires urgent attention due to recurring issues with binding. The offside rear binding noted in 2021 followed by an axle imbalance in 2022 indicates that the calipers are likely sticking or the discs are thinning. Given the four-year lapse since the last recorded test, the tyres, brake fluid, and rubber bushings are likely perished and will require immediate replacement. Structural integrity should also be verified for corrosion on the sills and subframe, as older Clio models are prone to rust which may not have been captured in the earlier advisories.