2016 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · DS16 ABF

The most recent MOT test dated 17 June 2026 resulted initially in a failure due to a major defect identified on the offside front track rod end ball joint, which was recorded as having excessive play. This is a significant steering component failure, as a worn track rod end can compromise directional stability, produce uneven and accelerated front tyre wear, and in advanced cases lead to separation of the joint, presenting a serious safety risk. Despite this failure, the vehicle subsequently passed on the same date, indicating that the track rod end was replaced prior to re-test. Both MOT entries from this date also carry advisories for slight cracking on the inner edges of both front tyre walls, suggesting the beginnings of sidewall perishing. Looking at the broader trend across 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026, the advisories have shifted from wear-related items such as brake pads, discs, and anti-roll bar bushes in earlier years to corrosion-related items on the rear coil spring in 2025, and now a steering component failure in 2026. This pattern suggests a vehicle that is beginning to show age-related deterioration in both suspension and steering consumables, and the maintenance trend can be considered stable but with a worsening profile of structural and chassis wear as the vehicle accumulates mileage and calendar age. The recorded mileage of 88,832 miles over a ten-year period equates to approximately 8,883 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a light commercial vehicle of this age, though it sits towards the lower end of commercial use expectations. The MOT records indicate a fairly consistent annual usage pattern with tests conducted in 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular service rather than left standing for extended periods. Given that this is a Renault Trafic likely used for commercial or trade purposes, even moderate annual mileage in a van of this type can lead to accelerated wear of steering and suspension components due to payload stresses, and the 2026 track rod end failure is consistent with the kind of wear one would expect to encounter approaching the 90,000 mile mark. Buyers should be aware that higher-load applications tend to accelerate wear on front suspension geometry, bushes, and braking components, even where the headline annual mileage figure appears modest. Given the track rod end failure and the pattern of advisories relating to suspension, braking, and steering components, a prospective buyer should carry out a focused physical inspection and test drive. The replacement track rod end should be verified, and the surrounding steering and suspension geometry including the inner rack gaiter, wishbone bushes, drop links, and anti-roll bar D bushes should be checked for play, cracking, or perishing. The 2024 advisories for front brake disc wear and thinning inner brake pads, together with the 2024 note regarding corroded rear brake pipes, mean that a thorough inspection of brake disc lipping, pad remaining thickness, and any surface corrosion or weeping from the rear brake lines and flexible hoses is essential. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, which may indicate worn drop links, anti-roll bar bushes, or top mounts, and pay attention to any vibration, wander, or uneven steering effort that could suggest further wear in the steering rack or that the track rod end replacement has not been correctly aligned. The advisories concerning the nearside rear coil spring corrosion from 2025 and the front tyre sidewall cracking noted in 2026 indicate that age-related rubber and metal deterioration is now becoming apparent across the vehicle. The front tyres should be physically inspected for sidewall cracking, perishing, or bulges, and if the original tyres remain fitted, replacement should be expected imminently regardless of remaining tread depth, as ten-year-old rubber compounds harden and lose flexibility. The rear coil spring corrosion advisory warrants a visual inspection of all springs for surface rust, scaling, or any loss of material, particularly given the vehicle's age and likely exposure to winter road salt in commercial service. Additional age-appropriate checks should include the condition of all coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, which degrade on a calendar basis rather than purely through use, and these should be verified as recently serviced. The 12V battery health should be confirmed, particularly if the vehicle has been subject to short journeys, and the exhaust system, including mounting rubbers and the catalytic converter area, should be checked for corrosion or damage from underneath. The 2023 advisory regarding a slightly damaged offside front seat belt and a cracked nearside front mirror should also be verified as rectified, and a thorough inspection beneath any undertrays or fitted covers, as referenced in the 2024 advisory, is recommended to ensure no underlying corrosion or fluid leaks are concealed.