2014 Renault Twingo 1.1L Petrol · ST14 XJH

The most recent DVSA MOT on 30 July 2026 recorded a Pass, following a failed test the previous day that highlighted a number of major safety items. While the immediate rectification allowed the vehicle to clear the test, the pattern over the last four years shows a steady accumulation of serious defects – repeated brake‑pipe corrosion, suspension arm wear, a fractured front coil spring, exhaust leaks and CV‑boot damage – indicating that the underlying maintenance regime has been reactive rather than preventative. The overall trend is therefore worsening, with the latest Pass dependent on recent repairs rather than a long‑term stable condition. At 128,959 mi the Twingo averages roughly 10,700 mi per year, which sits squarely within the typical usage envelope for a 12‑year‑old small car. There are no obvious mileage gaps in the recorded history, suggesting the vehicle has been driven fairly consistently rather than sitting idle for long periods. This level of mileage will have accelerated wear on consumables such as tyre sidewalls, suspension bushings, brake components and engine fluids, and it places the car well into the phase where age‑related degradation becomes as significant as mileage‑related wear. A prospective buyer should focus on the items that have appeared repeatedly in the MOT records. Inspect the front and rear brake pipes for extensive rust, pitting or any signs of grease covering the metal, and verify that any replacement work has been carried out with new, correctly fitted pipework; a corroded pipe can lead to reduced braking efficiency and fluid leaks. Examine the front suspension arm ball joint and the off‑side coil spring – look for excessive play, creaking or clunking when the wheel is rocked and for any visible cracks or deformation in the spring; a fractured spring can cause uneven tyre wear and a harsh ride. The CV boot on the nearside front drive shaft should be checked for splits or oil stains, as a compromised boot allows dirt ingress that can quickly destroy the joint. On a test drive listen for a constant whine or clicking from the CV joint, feel for any steering rack looseness especially on the off‑side, and note any vibration or shudder under acceleration that could betray a failing coil spring or worn ball joint. The exhaust system must be examined for leaks at the rear pipe and any signs of a faulty lambda sensor, as both can affect emissions compliance and fuel economy; a hissing sound or a strong exhaust smell at low revs would be a warning sign. Beyond the recorded defects, age‑related checks are essential. Verify the condition of all four tyres, paying particular attention to sidewall cracking, tread delamination or perishing, especially on the off‑side rear tyre that was previously noted as slightly damaged. Inspect the battery terminals and test the charge – a 12‑year‑old vehicle often has a battery nearing the end of its service life. Examine the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid for discoloration or contamination, as calendar ageing can degrade these fluids even if mileage is moderate. Finally, request a full service history to confirm that timing belt/chain intervals, spark plug changes and major service items have been observed; any lapses in scheduled servicing could exacerbate the wear already evident in the MOT data.