2014 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · TR03 TTO

The 2014 Renault Clio presents a mixed roadworthiness picture marked by a single major failure followed by consistent clean passes over the past two years. The most recent MOT on 2026-06-15 cleared without any defects, indicating the vehicle is currently roadworthy and meets current regulatory standards. However, this outcome follows a significant setback when the same vehicle failed its MOT on 2026-06-11 due to an excessively worn front lower suspension arm ball joint (category 5.3.4 (a) (i)). Between these two tests, three earlier MOTs were passed, suggesting the car remained compliant prior to the suspension failure. The subsequent clean result implies the suspension issue was resolved before the latest test, though buyers should verify the repair quality and whether any residual wear remains undetected. At 90,563 miles on a twelve-year-old model, the vehicle accumulates approximately 7,547 miles annually, which aligns closely with expected usage patterns for its age and reflects moderate total driving distance. There are no apparent gaps in the MOT testing schedule that would suggest extended periods without roadworthiness verification, nor any sudden jumps in mileage that might indicate rapid turnover or unusual driving conditions. The steady progression of tests—passes in 2023 through 2025, a failure in mid-2026, then a clean pass—demonstrates intermittent compliance rather than sustained reliability. The absence of repeated failures gives confidence that the vehicle did not accumulate critical deterioration during the intervening period, though the single major suspension failure warrants particular attention given its potential impact on handling and safety. The suspension system requires the most immediate scrutiny. The 2026-06-11 failure identified excessive wear on the offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, which could manifest as uneven ride height, clunking noises over bumps, or reduced control when navigating corners at speed. A post-pass inspection should confirm that the replacement part is properly installed and that the surrounding bushings have been reseated correctly, as inadequate adjustment could reintroduce the same problem within months. The brake system also carries multiple advisories from earlier records: front brake discs showing signs of pitting or scoring (2024-06-04), front brake pads appearing thin (2024-06-04), rear service brake binding (2024-06-04), and a minor exhaust gas leak (2024-06-04). These indicate that the braking system may require attention even if the current MOT passed, particularly the disc surface condition which can affect stopping performance under load. Checking for soft spots in the brake pads, audible squealing or grinding when applying the brakes, and ensuring the exhaust connection is secure are essential steps before considering this vehicle suitable for daily use. Additional areas warranting close examination include the nearside front tyre damage noted in 2023-06-01—a cut that reached the ply or cords—but which was deemed non-critical at the time. While the current MOT did not list any new tyre concerns, the underlying subframe integrity should still be inspected visually for rust or corrosion, especially around wheel wells and suspension mounts where water intrusion can compromise structural elements over time. Given the history of suspension work and brake system warnings, recommending a thorough visual inspection of the suspension linkages, brake caliper mounting points, and exhaust manifold gaskets will provide the best assurance that the vehicle remains safe and reliable. If the suspension repair was performed correctly and the brake components remain within acceptable limits, the car appears to be in a functional state despite its imperfect MOT history.