2017 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · SJ67 ACF

The 2017 Renault Clio’s most recent MOT test on 2022-09-28—just 3 years and 10 months ago—confirms it passed without defects at 57,206 miles. This suggests the vehicle has maintained a stable roadworthy condition since then, though the history reveals a concerning pattern of repeated failures at roughly annual intervals. Both the 2020 and 2021 tests show failures at identical mileages (31,570 and 40,629 miles respectively) despite retesting, indicating persistent underlying issues that were either overlooked or inadequately addressed. The lack of recorded defects on passing tests implies these failures were likely minor or easily rectified, but the recurrence hints at neglect of critical components. The mileage progression of 6,356 miles annually is typical for a vehicle of this age, though the abrupt jumps between tests—from 31,570 to 40,629 miles in under a year—suggest either inconsistent servicing or periods of heavy use. The 2021 retest at the same mileage as the failure (40,629) without explanation raises questions about whether the original fault was properly resolved or if the vehicle was simply driven until the next test window. No gaps in testing beyond the expected 12-month intervals are evident, but the pattern of repeated failures at identical mileages is unusual and warrants scrutiny. A buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and pads, given the repeated failures at identical mileages—this often points to binding or worn components. The suspension should be checked for worn bushes, corroded coil springs, or uneven wear, as these are common issues in Clios of this age. Corrosion at wheel arches, sills, and the subframe should also be examined, as rust can compromise structural integrity over time. Given the lack of defects on passing tests, the focus should be on components that typically fail intermittently, such as brake servo function, exhaust emissions systems, or electrical faults that might not always trigger a fail but could indicate broader neglect.