2009 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · GU09 OVB

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 27 May 2026 at 65,050 miles, but only after failing the same day on two critical items: a non-functioning nearside rear stop lamp and imbalanced front brakes that barely met minimum requirements. This indicates the car’s roadworthiness is currently marginal and dependent on last-minute repairs. The recurrence of brake imbalance issues across two consecutive tests—first flagged in 2025 and again in 2026—suggests a persistent fault, likely in the brake caliper, hose, or hydraulic balance, rather than a one-off adjustment error. The recorded mileage of 65,050 over 17 years equates to roughly 3,800 miles annually, which is low for its age and implies limited use. However, the gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests shows no mileage increase, suggesting the car may have been stationary for a year. The jump from 60,061 miles in June 2024 to 62,666 in May 2025 (2,605 miles in 11 months) and then to 65,050 in May 2026 (2,384 miles in 12 months) confirms resumed use, but the lack of consistent annual progression raises questions about long-term storage and potential fluid degradation or component seizure during downtime. A buyer must inspect the front brake system thoroughly—check for binding calipers, uneven pad wear, or leaking hoses, as the repeated imbalance points to a mechanical fault beyond simple adjustment. The failed stop lamp is a simple bulb or wiring issue, but its recurrence alongside brake problems hints at general neglect. The broken wiper rack from 2025 and misaligned headlamp in 2024 indicate overlooked minor faults that may reflect broader carelessness. Given the car’s age and low mileage, inspect for corrosion around wheel arches, suspension mounts, and exhaust hangers, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate rust even without high usage. The timing belt, if not replaced within the last 60,000 miles or five years, should be considered overdue.