2012 Renault Clio 1.1L Petrol · RV12 AEN

The 2012 Renault Clio’s most recent MOT test on 29 January 2026—just six months ago—confirms it remains roadworthy with no defects recorded. While the February 2025 failure stands out as an anomaly (likely a procedural oversight given the identical mileage and no listed issues), the consistent pass rates since then suggest the vehicle has been maintained at a baseline standard. The absence of advisories or recurring faults in the last two tests implies no obvious pattern of neglect or impending mechanical failure, though the 2024 failure at the same mileage raises a question about whether the test centre’s initial pass was overlooked or if the vehicle was driven briefly between tests. For a buyer, this suggests the car has not been subjected to severe or repeated mechanical issues, but a thorough inspection remains critical. The recorded mileage of 104,617 miles over 14 years equates to an average of approximately 7,473 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in service intervals visible in the MOT record, though the lack of pre-MOT maintenance logs means we cannot confirm whether routine services (e.g., brake fluid changes, suspension servicing) were performed. The January 2024 failure at 96,870 miles—directly followed by a pass at the same mileage—implies either a test centre error or a very brief period of use between tests, which does not indicate aggressive driving or deferred maintenance. However, the absence of mileage between the January 2025 failure and the February 2025 pass (a span of just three days) suggests the vehicle was either stationary or driven minimally during that period, which could point to limited recent use. Given the lack of defects in the most recent tests, a buyer should prioritise inspecting high-wear components that are not directly tested in an MOT but are critical for long-term reliability. Focus on the suspension system—particularly the rear bushes and coil springs—for excessive wear or corrosion, as these are common failure points in Renault Clios of this era. The brakes, though not flagged in tests, should be checked for uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the discs and pads, especially if the vehicle has seen wet or salted roads. Additionally, examine the exhaust system for leaks or rust penetration, particularly around the catalytic converter and muffler joints, as these are prone to failure in older models. The interior should be inspected for signs of water ingress (e.g., damp carpets, electrical faults) that could indicate roof or door seal deterioration. While the MOT record shows no major concerns, these areas warrant close attention to avoid unexpected repair costs.