2014 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · LM14 FSC

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2014 Renault Clio took place on 17 March 2026 and the vehicle passed with no defects or advisories recorded. This is the third consecutive pass within a twelve-year operational history and represents a stable maintenance trend overall. However, it is worth noting that on the day immediately prior to the latest pass, the vehicle was submitted and failed, although no failure defects were officially recorded against the entry. Similarly, in March 2025 the car was failed on the same day prior to passing without recorded defects. This pattern of same-day retests without logged reasons is unusual and a prospective buyer should verify directly with the test station or via the issuing garage receipts what remedial work was carried out to enable the subsequent passes, as undisclosed advisory-level repairs may have been addressed. With 74,267 miles recorded over an approximate twelve-year lifespan, this Clio has covered around 6,189 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its age and class. The mileage progression between annual MOTs appears consistent, suggesting regular use rather than extended periods of standing. This level of activity is generally favourable for mechanical longevity, as moderate use helps prevent the issues associated with prolonged inactivity such as seized brake calipers, flat-spotted tyres, and dried drivetrain seals. There is no indication of unusually high mileage accumulation that would suggest motorway commuting or heavy commercial use, both of which can accelerate wear on suspension, clutch, and braking components. Equally, the absence of significant mileage gaps implies the vehicle has not been laid up for long durations, reducing the risk of fluid degradation, perished rubber, and corroded brake discs. Given the clean MOT record and the absence of advisories across all recorded tests, a prospective buyer cannot rely on the DVSA history alone to identify developing issues. Instead, attention should turn to age- and mileage-related wear items that are not always flagged during the annual test. The tyres warrant careful inspection for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds deteriorate with calendar age regardless of tread depth; any visible crazing or brittleness warrants immediate replacement. Brake discs, although not flagged, can suffer from corrosion and lipping on a car of this age, so a test drive should be conducted to confirm smooth, vibration-free braking without any pulling to one side or shudder under pedal pressure. The 12V battery is now twelve years old in a worst-case scenario and is well beyond its typical service life, so its state of health and hold-down security should be checked, particularly if the vehicle has shown any signs of slow cranking. Beyond the consumables, several mechanical checks are prudent for a Renault Clio reaching the end of its twelfth year. The cooling system should be inspected for perished hoses, evidence of coolant leaks, and the condition of the radiator, while the timing belt or chain replacement interval should be confirmed against the manufacturer's schedule, as this is a critical service item often overlooked on ageing vehicles. All fluid levels and their respective service intervals, including brake fluid, coolant, and gearbox oil where applicable, should be verified against the service book stamps, with brake fluid particularly susceptible to moisture absorption over time which lowers its boiling point. During a road test, listen for suspension clonks over speed humps and uneven bumps, which would indicate worn anti-roll bar drop links, wishbone bushes, or coil springs; common Clio weaknesses. Finally, inspect the underbody and wheel arches for any surface corrosion, particularly around suspension mounting points, and verify the operation of all electrical systems including the infotainment unit, central locking, and electric windows, as electrical faults become increasingly prevalent on vehicles of this vintage.