2008 Renault Trafic 2.0L Diesel · AV58 BNU

The Renault Trafic’s most recent MOT history reveals a concerning instability in its roadworthiness, despite passing three out of five tests. The vehicle failed twice in quick succession in March 2026—both at the same mileage of 115,240—yet no defects were recorded, which suggests either an administrative error or a test centre oversight. The preceding tests in April 2025 and March 2024 passed without fail, indicating a stable pattern until the recent anomalies. The December 2023 failure at 105,957 miles, also without recorded defects, implies either a recurring but undocumented issue or a temporary lapse in compliance. Buyers should treat this as a red flag, particularly given the lack of transparency in the failure reasons. The recorded mileage of 115,240 miles over 18 years aligns with typical usage for this vehicle, averaging around 6,400 miles annually. There are no extreme gaps or sudden spikes in mileage between tests, though the 2023 failure at 105,957 miles—just two days before the 2024 pass at 105,994—suggests either a rushed repair or a minor oversight. The most recent tests in March 2026 occurred just four months ago, which is acceptable for MOT timing, but the dual failure raises questions about whether critical components were overlooked. Given the age of the vehicle, buyers should verify whether major services—such as suspension bush replacements, brake caliper binding checks, or drivetrain inspections—were conducted between these tests. Given the lack of documented defects, the most prudent areas for an in-person inspection would be the suspension system, particularly the rear axle bushes and coil springs, which often degrade silently over 18 years. The repeated failures without explanations may indicate undiagnosed issues such as brake drag, worn suspension components, or even structural corrosion in wheel arches or sills. The exhaust system should also be scrutinised for leaks or excessive rust, as emissions-related failures are common in older diesel vehicles. If the vehicle was driven through the recent failures, buyers should check for signs of forced repairs, such as uneven tyre wear or a stiff steering column, which could point to neglected alignment or steering rack wear. A thorough brake inspection—including disc thickness, caliper binding, and master cylinder condition—is essential, as brake-related failures are often the most critical in MOT tests.