2006 Renault Trafic 1.9L Diesel · PJ06 AAE

The Renault Trafic’s most recent MOT tests, conducted on 4 August 2025, reveal a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite identical mileage readings—both tests at 107,866 miles were recorded as passed and failed on the same day, a discrepancy that suggests either administrative error or a deliberate bypass of critical checks. The previous cycle, in July 2024 at 104,537 miles, similarly shows both pass and fail entries, indicating no meaningful progress in addressing underlying issues. While the 2023 test at 99,742 miles passed without defects, the absence of advisories or faults in any record makes it impossible to identify which components may have deteriorated over time. This lack of transparency raises immediate red flags about the vehicle’s true roadworthiness, particularly given the vehicle’s age and the repeated anomalies in the MOT history. The recorded mileage of 107,866 miles over 20 years suggests unusually light usage, averaging just 5,393 miles annually—a figure that could imply prolonged periods of inactivity or limited service. The gap between tests is consistent at roughly one year, but the identical mileage at consecutive failures in 2024 and 2025 implies the vehicle may have remained stationary for extended periods, accelerating wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake components. Such stagnation often correlates with rust development in wheel arches, sills, and underbody panels, as well as degradation of fluid-sealed systems like power steering and differentials. The lack of advisories in any test further complicates assessment, as critical issues might have been overlooked or masked by superficial compliance. Given the repeated MOT failures and the vehicle’s age, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle and steering linkages, where binding or excessive play could explain the test anomalies. The brakes, though not explicitly flagged, warrant scrutiny for uneven wear or corrosion on calipers and discs, especially if the vehicle has spent time off-road or in damp conditions. Underbody corrosion should be examined thoroughly, focusing on the rear sills, subframe, and exhaust system, as these areas are prone to deterioration in a vehicle of this age and mileage. The absence of service records or advisories makes it essential to verify the structural integrity of the chassis and body panels, as hidden rust or frame damage could compromise safety without immediate visual cues.