2002 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · PX02 RNF

The most recent MOT test on 17 August 2024 confirms this Renault Clio remains roadworthy, though the record reveals a pattern of near-miss failures that demand scrutiny. The vehicle passed cleanly in August 2024 at 78,116 miles, but the preceding April and August 2023 tests show two consecutive failures—each just three miles apart—before passing again. This suggests the tester identified critical but intermittent issues, likely related to emissions or minor but recurring mechanical checks. The absence of defects in the latest pass does not negate the need for thorough inspection, particularly of components prone to wear or corrosion given the vehicle’s age. The mileage progression indicates unusually low annual usage, averaging just 3,255 miles over the past two years. This could imply prolonged periods of inactivity, which may accelerate wear on fluids, seals, and suspension components due to static stress. The gap between the 2023 failure (69,568 miles) and the 2024 pass (78,116 miles) represents over nine months of no testing, a period where critical items like brake hydraulics, suspension bushes, or exhaust integrity could degrade without detection. The low mileage also raises questions about whether essential services—such as brake fluid replacement, differential lubrication, or corrosion protection—have been consistently performed. A buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of the suspension, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, given the vehicle’s age and the potential for dry-rotting or fatigue. The repeated MOT failures in early 2023 suggest the tester may have flagged binding calipers, uneven brake wear, or catalytic converter efficiency issues, all of which warrant verification. Structural corrosion—common in Clio models of this era—should be checked at wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, as hidden rust can compromise structural integrity. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions controls should be inspected for leaks or damage, as these were likely the cause of the 2023 failures. Given the irregular testing intervals, a full service history—including fluid changes and part replacements—would provide further clarity on the vehicle’s true condition.