2016 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · GM16 AEF

The vehicle currently holds a roadworthy status following a clean pass in September 2025 at 148,911 miles. However, the history reveals a pattern of reactive maintenance rather than proactive care. While the most recent test indicates no immediate defects, the previous years show a trend of significant component wear that was only addressed after failing inspections. The vehicle has recently moved away from the high frequency of mechanical failures seen in its middle years. At 148,911 miles over ten years, this Trafic averages approximately 14,900 miles per annum, which represents heavy commercial or long-distance use. The record shows consistent usage, with 16,603 miles covered between the June 2022 and August 2023 tests, and another 6,600 miles covered since the last MOT. This high annual mileage places considerable stress on the suspension assembly and drivetrain, which is reflected in the frequent mechanical failures recorded across the decade. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the front suspension and steering geometry. The area has been a recurring point of failure, with repeated issues involving anti-roll bar linkages, ball joints, and Macpherson strut top bushes between 2021 and 2023. The tester also noted a distorted nearside rear road wheel in 2021, suggesting the vehicle may have suffered significant impacts. Check for signs of fresh oil leakage on the shock absorbers, as these were flagged for misting and serious leaks in multiple previous tests. The braking system and wheel bearings require close scrutiny. The history shows instances of thin brake pads and scored discs in 2022, alongside persistent wheel bearing play noted between 2021 and 2022. Furthermore, the 2023 failure for mismatched tyre sizes on the same axle suggests poor attention to detail by previous owners or alignment issues during basic maintenance. Given the high mileage and history of worn suspension components, verifying that all bushings and linkages have been replaced rather than merely adjusted is essential.