2009 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · CE59 FYR

The Renault Clio’s most recent MOT test, conducted on March 10, 2025, resulted in a failure despite no recorded defects being listed. This stands out as an anomaly, as all prior tests—including the one just one year earlier on March 7, 2024—had passed without issue. The absence of defects in the failure record suggests the test may have been invalidated for administrative reasons, such as an expired test card or incomplete paperwork, rather than mechanical failure. However, the lack of a valid pass since March 2024 means the vehicle has not undergone a proper roadworthiness assessment for nearly two years, a period covering over 10,000 miles. This gap is concerning, as it precludes confirmation of critical components like suspension integrity, brake function, or exhaust emissions compliance during that interval. The recorded mileage progression of approximately 6,554 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the irregular spacing between tests complicates assessment. The most notable irregularity is the double MOT entry for March 8, 2023, where both a pass and a failure are logged at exactly the same mileage—89,240—suggesting either a duplicate submission or an error in the system. Beyond that, the mileage increments are steady, with no abrupt spikes or prolonged periods of inactivity that would indicate neglect or extended storage. Still, the absence of a valid pass since early 2024 means no recent verification of high-wear items like coil springs, suspension bushes, or brake calipers has occurred. Given the lack of defects in prior tests, the most pressing concerns for an in-person inspection would centre on components that degrade predictably over 111,000 miles. The suspension—particularly rear coil springs and bushes—should be examined for uneven wear or binding, as these are common failure points in this model. Brake discs and pads, though not flagged in past tests, may now require assessment for thickness and surface condition, especially if the vehicle has been driven heavily since the last pass. Structural integrity, including underbody corrosion around the sills and wheel arches, must also be scrutinised, as rust can compromise the chassis over time. The absence of advisories in the record does not guarantee these areas are sound; they simply were not highlighted during previous tests. A thorough check of the exhaust system for leaks or excessive corrosion is equally vital, given its impact on emissions and structural stability.