2014 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · YP64 AAZ

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2014 Renault Clio was conducted on 2026-06-29 and resulted in a clean pass, marking a positive turnaround from the previous failures. However, the overall maintenance history reveals a concerning pattern of recurring major defects and advisories, particularly in suspension, braking, and drivetrain components. The vehicle failed MOT in 2025 due to a fractured rear coil spring, a severely worn front suspension ball joint, a compromised CV joint boot, and a non-functional offside windscreen wiper, alongside a brake binding advisory. The 2026 failure highlighted a front shock absorber with a serious fluid leak, indicating progressive wear and potential long-term structural failure if unresolved. While the 2026 test passed, the persistence of these issues—especially the CV joint boot split and ball joint wear—suggests underlying mechanical fatigue that may not yet be critical but warrants immediate attention before further deterioration occurs. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 75,588 miles at the time of this assessment is consistent with its age, averaging around 6,299 miles annually, which is typical for a car of this era and usage profile. However, the gaps between MOT tests—particularly the two-year interval between 2024 and 2026—could imply periods of prolonged standing, which accelerates wear in stationary components such as brakes, suspension seals, and battery health. If the vehicle was driven regularly, the mileage alone does not justify the severity of the defects observed, suggesting either neglect in addressing minor issues or a higher-than-expected rate of component failure. The CV joint boot split and ball joint wear, for instance, are more likely to progress with consistent use, while standing corrosion could exacerbate brake disc binding or caliper sticking over time. For a prospective buyer, the most critical immediate checks should focus on the suspension and drivetrain systems, given the history of major failures. Inspect the front and rear suspension for any signs of further coil spring damage, particularly the offside spring, which was already fractured in 2025. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the suspension during a test drive, especially when driving over bumps or at speed, as this may indicate worn suspension bushes or damaged control arms. The front shock absorbers, which failed with a fluid leak, should be tested for firmness and responsiveness; a spongy or sluggish feel could signal internal failure. The CV joint boot split suggests the joint itself may be worn internally, leading to increased noise or vibration from the driveshaft, particularly when accelerating or turning sharply. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, as the edge wear and low tread depth from the 2026 MOT failure indicate either underinflation or misalignment, which could worsen with continued use. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also address the brake system, given the binding advisory and potential corrosion risks from standing. Visually inspect the brake discs for signs of corrosion, warping, or binding, particularly on the near-side front where the MOT noted binding. If the discs are heavily corroded or bound, the calipers may need to be serviced or replaced to prevent uneven braking performance or failure. The near-side rear brake binding could also suggest standing corrosion on the brake pads or backing plate, which should be cleaned and inspected for wear. The windscreen wiper, which failed in 2025, should be replaced to restore effective visibility, especially given the potential for reduced visibility in adverse weather. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and the potential for fluid degradation over time, consider checking the condition of the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these should be serviced according to manufacturer recommendations—typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 2 to 5 years, whichever comes first. Additionally, a thorough inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion is advisable, as the 2025 MOT history does not mention emissions-related issues, but age-related wear could still impact performance.