Motoring Today

Renault Clio MOT reliability

Reliability from 13 Renault Clio cars with real DVSA MOT history — how often they pass first time, the most common failure reasons.

Reviewed by the Motoring Today Editorial team · methodology in our editorial standards.

How reliable is the Renault Clio at MOT?

Across 2 Renault Clio cars on Motoring Today, the average first-time MOT pass rate is 60%. 50% of stock currently holds a valid MOT, with a median of 2 months left on the certificate. The most common reasons these cars fail an MOT are brakes, suspension and visibility (windscreen & wipers), from real DVSA test history.

Avg pass rate
60%
Valid MOT
1 / 2
Median MOT left
2 mo
Top failure
Brakes

There are currently 3 Renault Clios available on Motoring Today. National DVSA MOT test data reveals that the Clio achieves a pass rate of 62.62% from 326,522 real-world tests. While this figure reflects cars presented for test, it offers insight into common issues. The most frequent failure category is 'Lighting & electrical' at 34%, followed by 'Suspension' at 18%, and 'Brakes' at 17%. For a used Clio buyer, this means that while overall reliability can be good, specific areas often require attention. 'Lighting & electrical' issues typically involve blown bulbs, faulty wiring, or problematic headlamp alignment – simple checks can spot these. 'Suspension' failures often point to worn shock absorbers, springs, or bushes, which can be identified by knocking noises or uneven tyre wear. 'Brakes' failures can range from worn pads and discs to caliper issues or fluid leaks. Always check these common areas thoroughly during a pre-purchase inspection. It's important to remember that an MOT pass rate reflects the condition of vehicles at the time of testing, not necessarily lifetime reliability. Failures frequently correlate with vehicle age, mileage, and maintenance history, rather than the brand itself. The cheapest Clio listed on Motoring Today is £2,495, or a representative monthly payment of £66, subject to status.

60First-time MOT pass
Average pass rate
Stock with valid MOT
1 / 2
50% road-ready
Median MOT left
2 mo
Expiring < 2 mo
0
Plan for an MOT soon after purchase

Most common MOT failures on the Renault Clio

Grouped reasons for MOT rejection across 13 Renault Clio cars with DVSA test history in our stock (58 recorded failure items, 9 of them dangerous).

Failure areaRecorded failuresShare of failures
Brakes2034%
Suspension1831%
Visibility (windscreen & wipers)610%
Tyres59%
Drivetrain47%
Lighting & electrical35%

Based on real DVSA MOT test records for cars currently listed. Individual condition varies — always check the specific car's MOT history and advisories on its listing.

MOT pass rate is the percentage of Renault Clio cars in our stock that passed their most recent MOT on the first attempt, based on DVSA history. A pass rate above 80% is generally strong for a car of this age.

If a car you're viewing is approaching its MOT expiry, factor in the cost of any advisories — these are listed on each vehicle detail page.

Frequently asked questions

What is the MOT pass rate for a used Renault Clio?
Based on 326,522 real national DVSA MOT tests, the Renault Clio has a pass rate of 62.62%.
What are the most common MOT failures on a Renault Clio?
The top failure categories are Lighting & electrical (34%), Suspension (18%), and Brakes (17%), followed by Other (15%) and Visibility (windscreen & wipers) (8%).
Is the Renault Clio reliable?
An MOT pass rate reflects the condition of cars presented for test, not necessarily lifetime reliability. Failures tend to cluster in older cars or those that have not been well-maintained.
What should I check before buying a used Renault Clio?
Focus your checks on lighting, all electrical components, suspension components for wear, the braking system including discs and pads, and the condition of the windscreen and wipers.
How many Renault Clios are for sale now and what is the cheapest price/monthly payment?
There are 3 Renault Clios currently available for sale. Prices start from £2,495, with the cheapest monthly payment being £66. This is a representative example, and finance is subject to status.
What are the most common MOT failures on the Renault Clio?
Across 13 Renault Clio cars on Motoring Today with DVSA MOT history, the most common reasons for MOT failure are brakes, suspension and visibility (windscreen & wipers) (brakes account for 34% of recorded failures).

More Renault Clio resources