2003 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · AV53 PYB

The vehicle currently presents a questionable roadworthiness status due to a failure in its most recent MOT test. The test conducted on 23 January 2026 at 114,660 miles resulted in a failure with no specific defects recorded in the summary, which suggests a significant mechanical or structural failure that prevented a certificate being issued. This follows a recurring pattern where the car failed the initial test in two consecutive years, indicating a reactive approach to maintenance where repairs are only addressed when forced by a test failure rather than through preventative care. At 23 years old, the recorded mileage of 114,660 miles is notably low, averaging approximately 5,000 miles per annum. The data shows a consistent but infrequent usage pattern, with 3,923 miles driven between January 2024 and January 2025, and another 1,737 miles between January 2025 and January 2026. While low mileage generally reduces wear on drivetrain components, long periods of standing often lead to the degradation of rubber-based components, perished brake lines, and accelerated corrosion on the exhaust and underbody components. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection focusing on structural integrity and suspension components. Given the age of the vehicle and the low mileage, deep corrosion on the sills, floor pans, and mounting points is a high risk that MOT records cannot quantify. The inspector should also check for seized brake calipers and perished suspension bushes, which are common in vehicles that sit stationary. The recent failure in January 2026 requires a detailed diagnostic report to determine exactly what component failed inspection before any purchase should be considered.