2004 Renault Clio 1.5L Diesel · YD04 CPF

The most recent DVSA examination on 26 February 2026 returned a Pass with no defects or advisories recorded, indicating the vehicle was deemed roadworthy at the time of test. This follows a Fail on the immediately preceding day, 25 February 2026, which is also recorded without defects listed, a most unusual situation that strongly suggests an administrative or data entry anomaly rather than a genuine mechanical failure, as testers are required to record specific reasons for refusal. It is worth querying the previous keeper or the testing station to confirm what prompted the initial refusal, as the absence of recorded defect data means the precise cause cannot be determined from the DVSA record alone. Prior to this, the vehicle has enjoyed three consecutive Passes in February 2023, February 2024, and February 2025, all without advisories, which collectively points to a stable maintenance trend overall, provided the late-February 2026 anomaly is satisfactorily explained. With 202,519 miles recorded against a 22-year service life, this Clio has covered an average of approximately 9,205 miles per year, a figure broadly consistent with typical UK usage for a small family hatchback of this era. The annual MOT cadence shows tests taken in February of 2023, 2024, 2025, and twice in 2026, suggesting a keeper who keeps the car on the road consistently rather than allowing it to stand for extended periods, which is generally favourable for mechanical condition. The mileage is high in absolute terms and implies substantial wear on consumable and drivetrain components over the years, particularly the clutch, gearbox synchros, engine internals, and ancillary drive items. Any prospective buyer should request a service history to verify that this substantial mileage has been supported by regular oil and filter changes, timing belt replacement, and other scheduled maintenance, as high-mileage examples of this age are entirely dependent on documented care to remain reliable. Given the absence of recorded advisories and the fact that this is now a 22-year-old vehicle, age-related deterioration becomes a significant concern that MOT testing does not necessarily capture. Tyre sidewalls should be carefully inspected for perishing and cracking, as rubber degrades with age regardless of tread depth, and any tyres over five or six years old should be replaced irrespective of remaining tread. The braking system warrants close attention for seized or binding calipers, a common issue on cars that have seen mixed use, and the discs should be checked for lipping and surface corrosion, particularly given the high overall mileage. A test drive should focus on listening for any suspension clonks or knocking from the front wishbones, anti-roll bar bushes, and drop links, all known wear points on the Clio of this generation, as well as any uneven tyre wear which would indicate alignment or suspension component issues. Beyond the chassis and braking systems, the buyer should pay particular attention to age-related fluid degradation, as brake fluid, coolant, and automatic transmission fluid where applicable all deteriorate over time on a calendar basis rather than purely by mileage. The 12-volt battery should be tested for its state of health, as a 22-year-old car is almost certain to have had multiple battery replacements, and a failing battery can cause erratic electrical behaviour. The exhaust system should be examined for corrosion, particularly at the rear mounting points and joints, and the underside of the vehicle should be checked for any rust that may have developed around the wheel arches, sills, and suspension mounting areas. Finally, verifying the authenticity of the recorded mileage against the MOT history progression, obtaining evidence of a recent timing belt and water pump replacement, and ensuring the service book is fully stamped will be essential steps in confirming whether this high-mileage but consistently tested Clio represents sound value for a prospective buyer.