2006 Renault Clio 1.4L Petrol · RA06 FSP

The most recent MOT test on December 11, 2025, confirms the Renault Clio remains roadworthy with no defects recorded at 78,861 miles. The vehicle has maintained a clean pass history since the February 2025 retest, following a single failure in February 2025—an anomaly that resolved without further issues. This suggests the car has been consistently compliant with MOT standards, though the failure itself, despite no recorded defects, warrants scrutiny of the specific components tested at that time. The absence of advisories or recurring faults implies no systematic neglect, but the 2025 failure period—spanning just 13 days between test dates—raises a question over whether the vehicle was driven between tests or if the failure was procedural rather than mechanical. The recorded mileage of 78,861 miles over 20 years equates to approximately 3,943 miles annually, a figure significantly lower than the UK average for a vehicle of this age. The most notable gap occurs between February 2024 (69,786 miles) and February 2025 (75,614 miles), a 5,828-mile increase over 12 months, followed by a slower accumulation of 3,247 miles in the final six months. This pattern suggests periods of inactivity, which could indicate storage or limited use, but also raises potential concerns about fluid degradation or component wear from prolonged standing. The February 2025 failure at 75,541 miles, occurring just three days after passing at 75,614 miles, is unusual and may imply a rushed retest rather than an immediate mechanical failure. Given the clean MOT history, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on the February 2025 failure’s root cause, though no specific details are provided. The suspension—particularly coil springs, bushes, and dampers—should be examined for wear, as these components often degrade gradually and may not always trigger MOT failures until significant deterioration occurs. Brake systems, including calipers, pads, and discs, should be checked for uneven wear or corrosion, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Structural integrity, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and subframe, must be assessed for corrosion, as a 20-year-old Renault Clio is prone to rust-related failures. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions components should be inspected for leaks or blockages, as these are common failure points in older vehicles. The absence of advisories does not guarantee these areas are flawless, so thorough visual and functional checks are essential.