2015 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · CH61 ARA

The Renault Clio’s most recent MOT test on 2025-07-28 resulted in a rare dual entry—one pass and one fail at identical mileage—before ultimately passing without recorded defects. This anomaly, combined with four consecutive clean passes between 2022 and 2025, suggests the vehicle has avoided major mechanical failures during its annual inspections. However, the repeated testing at the same mileage raises caution, as it implies either a last-minute correction of an undocumented issue or a procedural oversight. No advisories or defects were logged in any of the five tests, which strengthens the case for consistent upkeep, though the lack of detailed inspection notes means hidden wear cannot be ruled out. The recorded mileage progression of approximately 5,374 miles per year over the past decade is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, particularly given the Clio’s typical usage patterns. Between 2022 and 2025, the mileage increased by just 8,456 miles—an average of 2,114 miles annually—indicating prolonged periods of inactivity. This could mean the car was stored for extended periods, which may have contributed to slower degradation of certain components, but it also raises questions about fluid maintenance (e.g., brake fluid, coolant, or fuel system stagnation). The gap between the 2022 and 2023 tests—just 5,971 miles in under a year—suggests a brief period of higher usage, though this was not sustained. Given the clean MOT history, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on components prone to neglect during low-mileage periods. Examine the suspension for degraded bushes or coil springs, particularly in the rear, where binding or uneven wear often develops without heavy use. The brakes, though not flagged, warrant scrutiny for corrosion in caliper slides or warped discs, especially if the vehicle was stored with wet brakes. Tyre tread depth, while not an MOT failure risk at current levels, should be checked for uneven wear patterns that could indicate alignment issues or prolonged static loading. Finally, inspect the underbody for corrosion around wheel arches, sills, and exhaust mounts—common in Renaults—since structural integrity is not verified during MOT tests. The absence of advisories or defects in the MOT record does not preclude the need for a thorough mechanical assessment. The dual testing in 2025, combined with the low mileage trend, implies either a well-maintained vehicle or one that has evaded deeper inspection. Buyers should prioritise a pre-purchase inspection to verify the condition of suspension components, brake hardware, and bodywork, as these areas are not systematically tested beyond MOT thresholds.