2013 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · HN63 FGJ

This 2013 Renault Clio presents an unusual MOT history that warrants careful attention despite the outwardly clean record. On 6 February 2026 the vehicle passed an MOT with no defects recorded, continuing a pattern observed at the 2 February 2024 and 4 February 2025 tests. However, each pass was immediately preceded on the same day by a failure with no defects recorded, which is a notable anomaly. Typically a failure without recorded defects suggests a refusal to issue a certificate for administrative reasons or a test that was aborted or not completed, rather than specific mechanical defects. In this case the recorded information does not establish the precise cause, so the mechanical implications remain unclear from the DVSA data alone. The recorded mileage of 61,231 miles over approximately 13 years equates to an annual accumulation of around 4,710 miles, which is notably low for a vehicle of this age. This low usage figure could indicate either consistently light running or, more likely given the test history, extended periods of standing. Vehicles that accumulate low annual mileage are more susceptible to issues such as deteriorated rubber components, brake disc corrosion from lack of use, stale fluids, and degradation of underbody protection. The testing record also shows a distinct pattern: tests were conducted annually in February of 2024, 2025, and 2026, with each year producing both a failure and a pass on the same date. This regularity suggests the vehicle was either being kept on the road with the failures corrected immediately, or there are specific circumstances around the testing that are not captured in the defect records. For a prospective buyer, the lack of recorded advisories across all tests is superficially reassuring but provides limited diagnostic information given the unusual test pattern. The immediate re-test on the same day following each failure implies that whatever prompted the failure was addressed quickly and efficiently, but the absence of defect details means the specific components involved remain unknown. A thorough physical inspection is therefore essential, with particular attention to the suspension, braking system, and underbody condition given the low annual mileage. The Clio of this era is known for rear axle corrosion and front suspension component wear, so a close examination of the rear subframe mounting areas, coil springs, and shock absorbers for any surface rust or component deterioration is advisable. On a test drive, listen carefully for any clonks or rattles from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly over speed bumps, as worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, and strut top mounts are common failure points on this generation of Clio. Check for any pulling to one side under braking, which could indicate binding or seized brake calipers, especially given the low mileage and potential for corrosion on the brake mechanism. Inspect the underside of the vehicle on a ramp if possible, paying close attention to the rear axle assembly, exhaust hangers, and any brake or fuel pipework for signs of corrosion or damage. Finally, verify the V5C and service documentation independently, as the pattern of same-day failures and passes raises questions that the MOT record alone cannot answer.