Renault common problems and MOT failures
From 1,748,312 MOT tests in 2024, 23.5% of Renault vehicles failed. Below are the most common reasons, ranked by how often they occur.
Top Renault MOT failure reasons
| # | Problem | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | suspension pin, bush or joint worn | 104,582 |
| 2 | spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened | 57,702 |
| 3 | steering ball joint with excessive wear or free play | 53,278 |
| 4 | lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning | 42,525 |
| 5 | tyre tread depth outside legal limits | 37,351 |
| 6 | the aim of a headlamp is not within limits the requirements | 36,369 |
| 7 | transmission shaft constant velocity joint boot missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc | 32,965 |
| 8 | rear registration plate lamp or light source missing or inoperative in the case of multiple lamps or light sources | 29,966 |
| 9 | tyre seriously damaged | 29,629 |
| 10 | windscreen washers not working or not providing sufficient fluid to clear the windscreen | 27,033 |
What this means if you're buying a Renault
The single most common MOT failure for Renault is suspension pin, bush or joint worn, accounting for 23% of all failure items. Suspension repairs typically cost £150–£400 depending on the component.
These figures are from real MOT inspections — they show what testers actually find wrong with Renault vehicles. If you're viewing a used Renault, it's worth checking these areas specifically.
Renault models by MOT pass rate
Lowest pass rates first — these models have the most testable issues.
| Model | Tests | Pass rate |
|---|---|---|
| Modus | 21,794 | 69.4% |
| Grand Scenic | 35,395 | 71.4% |
| Laguna | 17,061 | 71.8% |
| Scenic | 55,484 | 72.1% |
| Kangoo | 88,024 | 72.3% |
| Megane | 182,687 | 72.5% |
| Clio | 502,539 | 73.1% |
| Trafic | 197,632 | 73.7% |
| Master | 108,034 | 74.6% |
| Twingo | 33,573 | 74.9% |
| Zoe | 15,988 | 77.7% |
| Captur | 203,483 | 84% |
| Kadjar | 111,078 | 85.7% |
| Clio Iconic Tce | 14,614 | 89.4% |
| Captur Iconic Tce | 13,130 | 93% |
Buying a specific Renault? Check the individual vehicle's MOT history for free on GOV.UK to see its actual test results, advisories, and mileage readings.
Check MOT history on GOV.UK