2016 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · CL10 BAU

This Renault Clio presents an unusually clean DVSA record, with four consecutive PASS certificates and only one failure on file from May 2023 that carried no recorded defects, suggesting the vehicle was likely returned to test on the same day following a minor or unspecified rectification. A clean sheet with zero advisories across the most recent tests dated 2026-01-17, 2025-01-18, and 2024-05-16 is a positive indicator of consistent roadworthiness at the point of test, though it is worth noting that a complete absence of advisories on a high-mileage car approaching its tenth birthday can also indicate relatively recent attention to consumables rather than a lifetime of light wear. The stability of the record across multiple tests demonstrates no progressive deterioration trend, which is reassuring for a prospective buyer evaluating structural integrity and fundamental safety systems. Against an expected average of around 10,000 to 12,000 miles per annum for a vehicle of this age and class, the recorded 123,211 miles equates to approximately 12,321 miles annually, placing it at the higher end of typical use and signalling greater than average wear on mechanical consumables. The relatively even annual accumulation inferred from the consistent annual testing pattern suggests the vehicle has been in regular service rather than left standing for extended periods, which is generally favourable for components such as brake discs, callipers, and clutch hydraulics that suffer from inactivity-related corrosion or seizing. However, this sustained usage rate means items like suspension bushes, coil springs, wheel bearings, and exhaust mounting rubbers will have endured significant thermal and mechanical cycling, and a buyer should anticipate nearer-term replacement of these wear items regardless of what the MOT history currently shows. Given that no specific components have been flagged across the recorded history, the inspection focus should shift toward the items most likely to be approaching service intervals on a 2016 Clio with this mileage profile. Pay close attention to the front MacPherson strut top mounts and rear axle bushes, listening for clonking noises or vagueness through the steering over uneven surfaces. Check the front brake discs for a pronounced lip on the outer edge and feel for judder under firm pedal application, as warped discs are common at this mileage on this platform. Inspect the exhaust system, particularly the rear box mounting and flexi-joint, for signs of corrosion or blowing, and verify the cooling system for any evidence of crusting around the expansion tank or weepage from the thermostat housing, which is a known weak point on later Clio IV models. Finally, evaluate the clutch for slipping during hill climbs in fourth or fifth gear and confirm the dual-mass flywheel is free from the characteristic on-off-shuffle judder that develops as DMF springs fatigue. On the test drive, focus on how the vehicle behaves under load and over uneven surfaces rather than simply at idle. A faint steering wheel wobble above 50 mph could point to a wheel bearing beginning to wear or a tyre balance issue masking a flat spot. Listen for any buzzing or humming that rises with speed to isolate which corner is affected. Ensure the engine coolant temperature gauge sits squarely in the middle and that the heater delivers consistent warm output, confirming the thermostat is functioning correctly. Test the air conditioning system for cold output, as compressor failure and refrigerant leaks are common on vehicles of this age and were not recorded as advisories. Confirm all warning lamps illuminate and extinguish correctly on ignition, and verify the operation of the central locking, electric windows, and infotainment system, as electrical gremlins in the cabin harness and body control module are documented concerns on the Clio IV that fall outside the scope of standard MOT testing but could prove costly to remedy.