2016 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · CE66 XGP

The Renault Clio’s most recent MOT history reveals a concerning instability in its roadworthiness, particularly in the final test window. The vehicle failed on 2025-07-24 at 73,024 miles—despite no recorded defects—before passing the following day at the same mileage. While the 2024 and earlier tests show consistent pass statuses with no advisories, this abrupt failure suggests either a last-minute inspection anomaly or an undocumented mechanical issue that was not addressed before the retest. The lack of defects in the 2025 failure implies the tester may have overlooked a critical component, but the retest pass does not guarantee the problem was resolved. Buyers should treat this as a red flag, as repeated MOT failures—even without explicit faults—often indicate underlying neglect or a rushed inspection process. The mileage progression of 7,302 miles annually over the past decade aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the 7,755-mile jump between the 2024 and 2025 tests (from 66,269 to 73,024) is unusually rapid for a car this old. This suggests either a single owner with heavy usage or a change in ownership mid-cycle. The absence of advisories or defects in earlier tests indicates no major deferred maintenance, but the sudden failure in 2025—without accompanying notes—raises questions about whether critical components like suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake calipers were inspected thoroughly. The lack of a service history in the MOT record further complicates assessment, as fluid changes and wear-and-tear items (such as brake pads or timing belt) cannot be verified. Given the instability in the 2025 MOT cycle, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system , particularly the rear axle where binding calipers or worn bushes are common failure points in this model. The brakes, though not explicitly failed, warrant scrutiny for uneven wear or corrosion on the discs, as repeated MOT failures often correlate with brake system issues. Structural integrity should also be checked, especially around the wheel arches and sills, where corrosion can compromise the chassis. The 2016 Clio’s drivetrain—particularly the gearbox and differential—should be assessed for unusual noise or fluid leaks, as these are often silent until advanced. The failure to pass on the first attempt without explanation is itself a cause for concern, and any buyer should demand evidence of the retest’s resolution before proceeding.