2015 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · SC65 RXG

This 2015 Renault Clio presents an exceptionally clean MOT record over the past three testing cycles, with a pass certificate issued on 9 October 2025 following a single failed attempt the day prior. The failure on 8 October 2025, like the earlier one on 7 October 2023, was logged with no advisories or defects recorded by the testing station, which suggests a presentational or administrative issue rather than a mechanical deficiency, such as a missing bulb, an obscured number plate, or a tyre just below the legal tread threshold at the time of the initial inspection. The vehicle then passed cleanly on both occasions the following day. Across the 2023, 2024, and 2025 tests, no component wear, corrosion, fluid leaks, or structural concerns have been flagged, indicating a track record of consistent roadworthiness with no chronic defects developing across the most recent annual inspections. With 35,240 miles recorded against an eleven-year age, this Clio has covered approximately 3,200 miles annually, which is markedly below the typical accumulation rate for a small hatchback of this generation. Such low usage typically reflects short urban journeys or extended periods of inactivity rather than consistent motorway driving. Mechanically, low annual mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components, clutch material, and brake friction surfaces, but it can accelerate deterioration of items that suffer from disuse, including brake disc corrosion due to lack of regular braking action, and deterioration of rubber components such as suspension bushes and driveshaft gaiters left static. The mileage progression between tests is also remarkably stable, with no large jumps suggesting a long lay-up followed by heavy use, which is reassuring given the known susceptibility of certain Renault components to age-related degradation. For a prospective buyer, the absence of any advisories over the last three MOTs means there is no specific component flagged for closer inspection, but the low-mileage profile warrants particular attention to certain areas during a viewing. Inspect the brake discs closely for any lip of corrosion around the outer edge, as discs that have sat unused for prolonged periods can develop surface rust that, in advanced cases, leads to judder under braking. On a test drive, listen for any clonks or knocking from the front suspension over speed bumps or uneven surfaces, which could indicate perished front suspension bushes or worn anti-roll bar drop links. The Clio is also known for timing chain stretch on earlier units, so listen at cold start for any rattling from the engine bay that settles after a few seconds, as this is a known issue on the 0.9 TCe and 1.2 petrol engines fitted to this generation. Finally, verify the condition of the tyres, as even with low mileage the rubber compound can harden and crack after many years regardless of tread depth, particularly on a vehicle that has covered limited miles. Check the exhaust system for any signs of corrosion or blowing joints, especially at the mounting brackets and flexi section, as age alone can compromise integrity on an eleven-year-old vehicle. Inspect under the bonnet for any signs of oil misting around the cam cover or valve cover gasket, and confirm the coolant level and condition, as neglected coolant is a common cause of head gasket issues on small Renault petrol engines. A service history corroborating regular annual oil changes, even at low mileage, would significantly strengthen confidence in the long-term mechanical condition of the engine and gearbox.