2007 Renault Clio 1.4L Petrol · NV07 FJO

The most recent MOT, conducted on 5 September 2022 at 98,895 miles, resulted in a pass, but the vehicle has not been tested for nearly four years as of June 2026. That gap is significant. The maintenance trend across the full record is mixed and ultimately stagnant. The tester flagged a fractured offside front coil spring and a severely corroded nearside front sub-frame during the initial 2022 failure, both serious structural concerns. Although the subsequent pass suggests these were addressed, the long list of advisories from that same test date, including corroded brake and fuel pipes, a binding rear brake, and multiple worn suspension bushes, indicates the car was held together rather than properly maintained. The trend is not improving; it is simply paused. The mileage profile is notably low. The car covered just 11,803 miles between the July 2020 test at 87,092 miles and the September 2022 test at 98,895 miles, averaging roughly 5,350 miles per year over its nineteen-year life. The record shows no tests after September 2022, meaning the car has likely stood idle or covered negligible mileage for almost four years. Long-term standing is its own risk. Seized brake calipers, perished rubber hoses, dried-out suspension bushes, and flat-spotted tyres are common on vehicles left stationary for extended periods, regardless of the low odometer reading. A buyer must inspect the underside thoroughly. The 2022 failure specifically cited sub-frame corrosion significant enough to reduce structural rigidity. Check whether this was cosmetically treated or properly repaired. Examine all brake pipes and the fuel pipe for active corrosion, paying close attention to the offside rear brake pipe, which was flagged as excessively corroded in 2021. The offside rear service brake was also binding in 2022, so verify the handbrake mechanism and caliper slides are free. Suspension components remain a recurring theme. The nearside front lower arm ball joint, rear bush, and anti-roll bar linkage all showed wear or deterioration in 2022. Press-test every bush and joint, as a simple visual check will not reveal hidden play. The tyres demand immediate attention. Both front tyres were flagged for cracking and perishing in September 2022. After four years of dormancy, these are almost certainly unsafe regardless of remaining tread depth. Budget for a full set. The persistent oil leak, noted in 2020, 2021, and 2022, also warrants investigation. A minor seep can become a major failure if the car returns to regular use after long-term storage. This is a mechanically tired vehicle with a history of deferred corrosion and suspension wear. Treat the low mileage as a double-edged sword: less use, but neglect disguised as care.