2018 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · FN18 VFP

The vehicle achieved a PASS at its most recent DVSA MOT test on 12 May 2026, although two advisories were recorded concerning slight damage, cracking or perishing on both the nearside and offside rear tyres. Reviewing the broader test history, the trend is broadly stable, with consistent pass outcomes recorded annually since an earlier wiper failure in February 2021. The February 2021 failure, which cited both front wiper blades failing to clear the windscreen effectively, was straightforwardly remedied and has not recurred in any subsequent test. The notable development is the persistent tyre advisory now appearing at the two most recent tests, suggesting that while the vehicle is fundamentally sound, age-related deterioration of the rear tyres is becoming a recurring observation that warrants close attention. With 31,823 miles recorded over approximately eight years, this Clio averages around 3,978 miles per year, which is considerably below the national average and indicates either a secondary-use vehicle or one that has spent extended periods stationary. Such low annual mileage typically preserves wear-sensitive components such as the engine internals, clutch and main drivetrain, but it can simultaneously accelerate certain age-related defects. Brake discs and calipers can suffer from surface corrosion or seize from prolonged inactivity, suspension bushes and coil springs may dry out and crack, and exhaust systems are prone to internal and external corrosion when seldom used. Fluid degradation is also calendar rather than mileage dependent, so the brake fluid, coolant and engine oil will still require periodic replacement irrespective of how few miles are covered. For the prospective buyer, the recurring rear tyre advisories should be taken seriously even though they are recorded as minor. Sidewall cracking and perishing, common on a low-mileage vehicle of this age, is often a symptom of UV exposure and natural rubber degradation rather than wear, and such tyres can fail suddenly under load or in adverse conditions. On a test drive, listen for any tyre-related thump or vibration and visually inspect both rear sidewalls for visible crazing or splitting; budget for a full replacement set of matching tyres if the perishing is widespread. Given the limited annual use, a thorough inspection of the braking system is equally important, as seized calipers or heavily corroded discs will produce pulling to one side, juddering under braking, or an excessively long pedal travel, all of which are symptoms that may not have surfaced during the MOT brake efficiency test but will reveal themselves during normal road use. Beyond the recorded advisories, several time-based items deserve verification before purchase. The 12-volt battery is a frequent failure point on low-mileage vehicles, as repeated short journeys and long standing periods prevent full charging, so its age and state of charge should be confirmed and a load test ideally requested. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, absorbing moisture over time, and on an eight-year-old car it should have been changed at two-year intervals even if the mileage does not warrant it. Coolant similarly degrades on a calendar basis, and if the timing belt or cam belt on this petrol Clio has not been replaced within the manufacturer recommended interval, now approaching or exceeding eight years, this represents a significant imminent maintenance cost and a potential mechanical risk. Finally, inspect under the vehicle for evidence of standing corrosion on the exhaust, subframe and suspension arms, check that all service book stamps are present and within schedule, and verify that the vehicle is started from cold during any viewing to ensure smooth running after extended standing periods.