2018 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · FG18 ADV

The Renault Clio’s most recent MOT tests reveal a concerning inconsistency at the very latest inspection, where the vehicle was subjected to two identical tests on the same date—one passing and one failing—yet no defects were recorded. This anomaly suggests either an administrative error or a temporary operational issue at the testing centre, as no mechanical failures were documented. Beyond this, the preceding MOT history from March 2024 to April 2025 shows a clean pass record with no advisories or faults, indicating the vehicle remained compliant with UK roadworthiness standards during that period. The absence of recurring issues in the official record implies no obvious pattern of neglect, though the double-testing incident warrants further clarification from the seller regarding the vehicle’s condition on that date. The mileage progression of 55,912 miles over eight years reflects a steady, if not unusually high, annual average of approximately 6,989 miles. This suggests regular use rather than prolonged storage, which could accelerate wear on components such as suspension bushes, brake pads, and drivetrain fluids. Notably, there is a significant gap between the April 2023 test at 26,901 miles and the March 2024 test at 32,262 miles—a 5,361-mile increase over just over a year—before the pace stabilised. While this does not indicate extreme neglect, it does imply the vehicle was actively driven during that interval, potentially increasing exposure to wear on items like tyres, brakes, and suspension. Given the clean MOT history, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on suspension integrity, particularly the condition of rear suspension bushes and coil springs, given the vehicle’s age and mileage. The double-testing incident in March 2026, though unexplained, raises caution around brake system reliability, so binding calipers, uneven pad wear, or corrosion on brake discs should be scrutinised. Additionally, the lack of advisories does not preclude hidden corrosion—especially in structural areas like the sills, wheel arches, and subframe—so a thorough underbody check is essential. The tyres, while not flagged in the MOT, should be inspected for uneven wear or excessive tread depth, as the vehicle’s mileage suggests they may be approaching their serviceable limit.