2005 Renault Clio 1.4L Petrol · PJ05 AEO

The most recent MOT test on 15 April 2025 at 101,504 miles resulted in a clean pass with no defects recorded, so the vehicle is currently roadworthy and the maintenance trend looks stable. The failure logged the day before, on 14 April 2025 at the same mileage, also listed no defects, which strongly suggests an administrative or minor rectification issue rather than a mechanical fault. Across the last three test cycles, the car has passed without a single advisory, meaning testers have found no suspension wear, brake binding, or structural corrosion concerns over that period. That is a genuinely clean history for a 21-year-old Renault Clio. The mileage pattern shows a notable shift in usage. Between March 2023 and April 2024 the car covered only about 3,260 miles in thirteen months, which is light, almost occasional use. Then between April 2024 and April 2025 it covered roughly 10,000 miles in twelve months, a far heavier rate of travel. The overall average of approximately 4,834 miles per year is low for the car's age, but the recent surge in mileage suggests it has moved from short local trips into more sustained running, which places greater strain on the cooling system, tyres, and brake components. Because the DVSA record is so clean, it does not signal any recurring mechanical weakness. The single unexplained failure immediately before the last pass points to something quick to fix, such as a tyre tread or lamp defect, rather than a structural issue. That said, a 2005 Clio still carries age-related risks that only a fresh inspection can confirm. The rear axle on these cars can corrode internally, and the sills, coil springs, and brake pipes are all prone to surface rust after two decades. The tester has not flagged these, but condition can change between MOTs, so a buyer should examine the underside for corrosion and check the rear brakes for any binding. Clutch wear, wiper blades, and general tyre condition are also not captured fully in a pass result, so these remain practical checks for whoever buys the car.