2009 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · WEZ 1018

The 2009 Renault Clio’s most recent DVSA MOT test on 2026-07-02 resulted in a passing grade, though it carried two critical tyre wear advisories (both nearside front and rear tyres approaching the legal limit with edge wear) and a parking brake with insufficient reserve travel. This follows a previous MOT failure in 2026-07-01, where the same tyre issues were noted alongside major defects in the offside front position lamp, headlamp beam misalignment, and excessive play in the offside front track rod end ball joint. The earlier 2024 and 2023 MOTs were clean, suggesting a pattern of wear-related advisories emerging as the vehicle aged, particularly in suspension and tyre systems. While the latest test passed, the recurring tyre wear and ball joint concerns indicate a maintenance trend that has not fully resolved, warranting careful attention to prevent further degradation. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 130,745 miles over approximately 17 years represents an average annual usage of around 7,691 miles, which is consistent with typical usage patterns for a car of this age and model. However, the absence of service records or mileage gaps suggests either underutilised ownership or prolonged periods of inactivity, which can accelerate wear in certain components. For example, standing tyres may develop uneven wear or sidewall cracking due to prolonged exposure to heat and ozone, while brakes and suspension components exposed to moisture and lack of movement can corrode or seize. The offside front track rod end ball joint showing both slight and then excessive play over multiple MOTs hints at progressive wear in the suspension bushings or seals, which could lead to increased road noise or steering play if not addressed promptly. As a prospective buyer, the most urgent inspection should focus on the tyres, given the repeated near-legal wear advisories. Check for sidewall cracks or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity and safety, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. The parking brake should be tested for adequate engagement and reserve travel; if the previous advisory persists, the parking brake mechanism may require servicing to prevent binding or failure. During a test drive, listen for unusual suspension noises, particularly clunks or rattles from the front wheels, which could indicate failing ball joints or suspension components. The headlamp beam misalignment from the 2026-07-01 MOT failure should be corrected immediately to ensure proper visibility and compliance with road lighting regulations. The offside front track rod end ball joint play is a critical issue; if confirmed during inspection, replacement may be necessary to prevent steering instability or suspension failure. For broader mechanical checks, verify the condition of the 12-volt battery, as prolonged inactivity can lead to corrosion or a weakened state. Inspect the brake discs and pads for corrosion, binding calipers, or uneven wear, particularly on the near-side where previous advisories were noted. Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle, focusing on the cooling system, brake fluid reservoir, and power steering reservoir, as these can indicate failing seals or hoses. Given the vehicle’s age, consider a thorough service history review to confirm compliance with Renault’s recommended maintenance intervals, such as oil changes, timing belt replacement, and suspension component servicing. Finally, address the parking brake and headlight issues promptly to ensure roadworthiness and compliance with legal standards. If the vehicle has been driven regularly, the wear pattern suggests it is approaching the end of its suspension and tyre lifespan, making proactive maintenance essential.