2018 Renault Clio 0.9L Petrol · ST67 VKA

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2018 Renault Clio, recorded on 1 July 2025, resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories noted. However, it is worth observing that a fail was logged on the very same date immediately preceding the pass, which strongly suggests a retest was carried out following a rectification of defects on the day. While the outcome itself is satisfactory and there are no advisories carried over that would indicate ongoing deterioration, this pattern warrants a degree of scrutiny. Two passes in 2024 followed an identical same-day fail-and-retest sequence, hinting that the vehicle may have borderline items that occasionally tip into the failure category. Overall, the maintenance trend appears broadly stable rather than actively deteriorating, but the recurring test-day interventions suggest the car would benefit from a thorough independent inspection before purchase. With 58,471 miles recorded over approximately eight years, this Clio has covered a broadly average annual mileage of around 7,300 miles. This is consistent with typical mixed private and commuter use and indicates that the vehicle has been in regular service rather than left standing for prolonged periods. Such usage tends to be favourable for mechanical longevity, as it prevents many of the issues associated with long-term storage such as seized brake calipers, perished seals, and heavy corrosion on brake discs. However, at this age and mileage, several major service items are likely approaching or due, including cambelt replacement (Renault recommends replacement at five-year or 90,000-mile intervals on most Clio engines, whichever comes first), coolant renewal, and brake fluid replacement, which has a calendar-based interval of typically two to three years regardless of mileage. Given the absence of recorded advisories on any of the MOT tests, particular attention during a physical inspection should focus on age-related wear items that an annual roadworthiness examination might not fully capture. Tyre sidewalls should be examined carefully for perishing and cracking, as rubber compounds deteriorate with age and the existing tyres may be original to certain components even if the tread depth remains legal. The 12V battery should be tested for state of health, as a Clio of this vintage will likely be on its second or third battery and a failure could leave the owner stranded. Brake discs should be inspected for any lipping or binding calipers, particularly given the modest mileage, which can sometimes allow components to corrode slightly between uses even though no defect was recorded. On a test drive, listen carefully for any clonks or knocks from the front suspension, particularly over speed humps and uneven surfaces, as worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, and strut top mounts are common on the Clio at this age. Pay attention to the steering for any vagueness or knocking that might indicate worn track rod ends or bottom arms, and check for uneven or feathered tyre wear which would point to alignment or suspension geometry issues. The gearbox should be exercised through all gears to confirm smooth selection, and the clutch should be tested for slip under load in a high gear. Finally, request evidence of the cambelt replacement, full service history stamps, and confirm that all time-based fluid services have been carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's schedule, as these are the most likely significant expenditure items approaching on an otherwise well-maintained vehicle of this age and mileage.