2012 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · YG12 ACX

The vehicle's roadworthiness is currently stable following its most recent pass on 26 February 2026 at 111,728 miles, but the mechanical history shows a persistent pattern of deferred maintenance. While the car passed the latest test, several advisories indicate ongoing issues that have been present for years. Specifically, the rear sub-frame corrosion, the offside rear coil spring corrosion, and the engine/drive shaft oil leak have all been noted in consecutive tests dating back to at least February 2025. The appearance of a distorted nearside front road wheel and a deteriorated anti-roll bar dust cover in the latest inspection suggests that while major failures are being addressed, minor component degradation is continuing. The mileage accumulation is consistent with the vehicle's age, averaging approximately 8,000 miles per year. The record shows steady progression from 70,478 miles in February 2018 to 111,728 miles in February 2026. There are no significant gaps in the testing history, indicating the vehicle has been in regular use. However, the frequency of failures regarding consumables, such as tyres and brake discs, suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to maintenance. For example, the February 2025 failure at 105,053 miles due to worn brake discs and parking brake inefficiency follows a pattern of neglecting wear items until they reach a critical state. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the vehicle's structural integrity and suspension. The recurring advisory regarding rear sub-frame corrosion is a significant concern; although currently described as not seriously weakened, its presence across multiple years requires close scrutiny for any signs of structural perforation. The offside rear coil spring has also been flagged for corrosion repeatedly, which could lead to sudden failure. Given the history of fractured coil springs and worn suspension ball joints, the entire underside should be examined for excessive play or advanced rust. Mechanical attention should also be directed toward the engine and drivetrain. The oil leak from the rear of the engine and the nearside front drive shaft oil seal has been a consistent issue since at least early 2025. While not currently deemed excessive, this leak warrants monitoring to ensure it does not escalate. Finally, the recent advisory regarding the distorted nearside front wheel suggests potential impact damage or uneven tyre wear, which should be checked alongside the steering and wheel bearing components to ensure no further underlying damage exists.