2005 Renault Trafic 1.9L Diesel · GX05 ARF

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows a concerning trend of worsening mechanical neglect and recurring electrical faults. While the most recent test on 12 June 2025 at 173,851 miles resulted in a pass, this followed a significant failure just one day prior. The June 2025 failure highlighted multiple critical issues, including a fault in the supplementary restraint system, a defective nearside rear wheel bearing, and excessive play in the offside front track rod end. The pattern of failing on consumables like tyres and bulbs, alongside more serious suspension and braking issues, suggests a reactive rather than proactive approach to maintenance. The mileage accumulation is consistent with the vehicle's age, averaging approximately 8,279 miles per year. The record shows steady use, with the mileage increasing from 113,508 in September 2020 to 173,851 in June 2025. There are no significant gaps in usage, but the frequency of MOT failures suggests that while the vehicle is being driven regularly, essential repairs are often deferred until the vehicle fails a formal inspection. This is evidenced by the multiple failures in 2023, where the vehicle failed twice in quick succession due to a wide range of issues including insecure seating, brake wear, and tyre tread depth. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension and steering components. The MOT history shows a persistent cycle of issues with Macpherson struts, anti-roll bar bushes, and track rod ends, with faults appearing intermittently across several years. The recent report of a rough nearside rear wheel bearing and previous instances of binding brakes indicate that the braking system and wheel assemblies require close scrutiny. Furthermore, the recurring supplementary restraint system (SRS) warning lamp faults since 2018 represent a serious safety concern that must be professionally diagnosed to ensure airbag functionality. Electrical reliability also appears problematic, with frequent failures involving horns, fog lamps, position lamps, and windscreen wipers. The 2022 test also flagged excessive smoke emissions, which may point to underlying engine or exhaust issues that could resurface. Given the age of the vehicle and the history of neglected consumables, a buyer should check for signs of structural corrosion and ensure that all electrical components and safety systems are fully operational rather than merely passing the minimum requirements of the MOT.