Renault R5 Mk2 (Super 5) (1984-1996) reliability
Renault R5 Mk2 (Super 5) built before 2000: fails its MOT less often than average
Renault R5 Mk2 (Super 5) models built before 2000 fail their MOT less often than similar cars the same age. An independent inspection matters more than the wider numbers on cars this old.
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Key figure
20% of MOT tests on Renault R5 Mk2 (Super 5) models built before 2000 ended in a fail (retests included), against 25% for similar cars the same age.
Most common issue
The most common MOT issue on Renault R5 Mk2 (Super 5) models built before 2000 involves fluid leaks.
Based on 698 tests of R5 models registered 1984-1996.
About 1 in 10 R5 Mk2 (Super 5) MOTs (9.9%) failed and still hadn't passed 3 days later. That's for cars built before 2000 (over 25 years old), all fuels combined.
Based on 698 tests (DVSA MOT results, 2025), a small sample, so the figure is likely between 7.9% and 12.3%. A fail that passed a retest within 3 days, even the same day, isn't counted. Nor is a fail with no later MOT on record.
About 1 in 40 R5 Mk2 (Super 5) MOTs (2.3%) found at least one dangerous defect. These are cars built before 2000 (over 25 years old).
Based on 698 tests (DVSA MOT results, 2025), a small sample, so the figure is likely between 1.4% and 3.7%. Dangerous is the most serious grade an MOT gives: a direct risk to road safety.
Mk2 (Super 5) fail rate by age
Fail rate is the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests. How we count fail rates Build years are worked out from age, so they are approximate. Tests counted are 2025 MOTs. Highest fail rate at 25+ years old.
How the R5 Mk2 (Super 5) compares
At each age below, see how the R5 Mk2 (Super 5) holds up against other cars the same age. The averages combine all fuel types.
Based on 5,902 tests across 9 Renault models, built before 2000 (over 25 years old).
Fail rate is the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests. How we count fail rates Build years are worked out from age, so they are approximate. Tests counted are 2025 MOTs.
What to check before viewing
The model's most common MOT issues, turned into things you can ask about or look for.
Brake pipes and hoses
High priorityLook under the car for corrosion or chafing on the rigid brake pipes near the rear axle.
Brake discs
High priorityAsk for the date and mileage of the last disc replacement; visually check for a deep wear lip and rust pitting on each disc.
Leaks
Worth checkingInspect the leaks carefully and ask the seller for repair history.
Suspension
Worth checkingInspect the suspension carefully and ask the seller for repair history.
Tyres
Worth checkingCheck tread depth across the full width on all four; uneven wear suggests alignment or suspension issues.
Vehicle-specific check
Worth checkingCheck the car’s number plate on MOT Wise to see its own MOT history and any recalls for its build years.
Other hatchbacks to compare
Other hatchbacks, with each one's figures taken at the same age as the R5 Mk2 (Super 5).
- 1
Ford Sierra
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 11.5%
- Fail, no pass in 3 days
- 6%
- Dangerous
- 1.5%
Lower fail rate: 11.5%, against 19.8% for the Renault R5 Mk2 (Super 5), both built before 2000.
3,022 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 2
Vauxhall Nova
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 15.2%
- Fail, no pass in 3 days
- 6.8%
- Dangerous
- 2.2%
Lower fail rate: 15.2%, against 19.8% for the Renault R5 Mk2 (Super 5), both built before 2000.
1,003 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 3
Austin Mini
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 22.6%
- Fail, no pass in 3 days
- 5.9%
- Dangerous
- 4.5%
Fewer fails still not passed 3 days later: 5.9%, against 9.9% for the Renault R5 Mk2 (Super 5).
3,373 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 4
Subaru Impreza
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 19.9%
No clear edge over the Renault R5 Mk2 (Super 5) on these figures.
2 critical recall campaigns matching this model/build period.
2,760 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- Fail rate
- = the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests.
- Fail, no pass in 3 days
- = the share of MOT tests that failed and still hadn't passed 3 days later. A fail that passed a retest within 3 days, even the same day, isn't counted.
- Dangerous
- = the share of MOT tests where the tester marked a fault as dangerous. It is against the law to drive the car until it is fixed.
Recall context
DVSA's recall list has no recalls filed under the Renault R5 name. For the exact car, check with the maker or GOV.UK's recall checker.
What has gone wrong on R5 Mk2 (Super 5) cars built before 2000
The share of petrol cars that have ever failed an MOT on each part of the car. Based on 1,567 cars.
Rust, which the MOT calls corrosion: 29% of these cars show rust-related issues at this age.
Check the sills, subframe and brake pipes before you decide.
Mk2 (Super 5) variants compared
Most common issues on Renault R5 models of this age
This list covers every Renault R5 built before 2000, whichever generation it is. We don't have a defect list for the Mk2 (Super 5) on its own.
Most common advisories and fails
In order of the share of MOT tests that recorded each one
- 116.1%Advisory
Oil leak, but not excessive
- 28.8%Advisory
Brake pipe corroded or covered in grease
- 37.7%Advisory
Brake disc worn, pitted or scored, but not seriously weakened
- 46.5%Advisory
Suspension mounting area corroded, but not seriously
- 55.4%Advisory
Tyre slightly damaged, cracking or perishing
Based on 703 tests
Looking at a Renault R5 Mk2 (Super 5) right now?
Enter its number plate to see its full MOT history, risk rating and running costs.
Frequently asked questions
Built before 2000 (over 25 years old), the Renault R5 Mk2 (Super 5) (1984-1996) fails MOTs noticeably less often than typical for this age. This is based on 698 25+ year old MOT tests from DVSA data. Each retest counts as a test.