2023 Renault Clio E-Tech Engineered HEV A 1.6L Hybrid electric (clean) · RF23 SSZ

A pattern of front-tyre wear and a recent engine management system failure dominate the mechanical profile of this 2023 Renault Clio E-Tech. The most recent test on 2026-07-13 concluded with a Pass, but only after a previous attempt just 23 days earlier on 2026-06-20 resulted in a Fail with a Major defect for an inoperative or malfunctioning Engine MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp). That single Major defect covers a wide range of potential powertrain, emissions, or hybrid system faults on the E-Tech hybrid drivetrain, and its late-2026 occurrence means any warranty or goodwill rectification would need to be evidenced separately. Beyond the failure itself, the only other items in the recorded history are three advisories issued on the same July 2026 test, all relating to the front tyres. Two front tyres were flagged as worn close to the legal limit or worn on edge, and the nearside front tyre was also noted as having a cut not yet penetrating to the ply or cords. Although the vehicle ultimately passed, the concentration of defects on the front axle is worth treating as a live concern rather than a closed matter. Mileage accumulation is broadly consistent with what would be expected for a three-year-old hybrid. With 18,562 miles on record, the car has averaged roughly 6,187 miles per year, which sits in the normal band for urban and suburban drivers of a Clio-sized hybrid. There are no prolonged gaps in the test record suggesting extended off-road storage, nor any indication of unusually rapid accumulation that would point to heavy commercial use, motorway commuting, or long-distance running. Mechanically, this kind of mid-range annual mileage tends to keep the hybrid system, regenerative braking components, and high-voltage battery in regular use, which is generally favourable for lithium-ion cell longevity, while still allowing normal wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads and discs. The relatively low overall mileage also means the conventional engine and gearbox have not been heavily worked, though the hybrid components themselves can age through cycle count rather than distance. Given the front-tyre advisories, close attention should be paid to the front suspension geometry and the condition of the tyres themselves. Worn close to the legal limit on both front edges suggests either an alignment issue, typically toe or camber out of specification, or simply that the tyres are nearing the end of their useful life. During a viewing, inspect the inner and outer shoulders of all four tyres for uneven wear, check that the sidewalls are free of cracks or bulges, and confirm the nearside front cut has not extended deeper since the test. A test drive should include moderate-speed cornering over uneven surfaces to listen for clonking from the front suspension, which could indicate worn top mounts, droplinks, or control arm bushes, any of which would accelerate inner-edge tyre wear. Also check for steering pull to one side, vibration through the wheel around 50 to 60 mph, and any sense that the car is wandering rather than tracking straight. The more significant concern is the Engine MIL failure from June 2026, and this should be actively investigated before purchase. The MIL on a Clio E-Tech illuminates for a broad range of issues, including hybrid system faults, emissions control malfunctions, catalytic converter efficiency problems, oxygen sensor failures, misfires, or even low 12V battery voltage triggering spurious hybrid system warnings. It is essential to establish what diagnostic trouble codes were logged, what repair was carried out to clear the fault, and whether any components were replaced under warranty. Request a printout from the diagnostic tool used, or evidence of the rectification work, and verify the warning light does not reappear during a prolonged test drive covering town, dual carriageway, and gentle motorway running. The hybrid system transition between electric and petrol modes should feel seamless, with no shudder, hesitation, or unusual engine running when the petrol unit cuts in. If the seller cannot provide clear documentation of the repair, an independent diagnostic scan prior to purchase would be strongly advisable to confirm that the underlying issue has been properly resolved.