2016 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · FP66 XDV

The 2016 Renault Trafic holds a current MOT, passing on 19 May 2026 at 89,072 miles, but the maintenance trend is mixed. The vehicle failed on the same day due to a front exhaust leak, a worn and scored offside front brake disc, low offside front brake pads, a binding offside front service brake, and a damaged nearside rear outer tyre. That same-day pass indicates the owner addressed those specific brake and tyre issues promptly, yet the front exhaust leak persists as an advisory, suggesting a minor but unresolved fault rather than a serious structural or mechanical decline. Mileage accumulation is consistent with light commercial use. The van recorded 63,310 miles in May 2023, 73,128 miles in May 2024, 78,860 miles in April 2025, and 89,072 miles in May 2026, indicating roughly 10,000 miles per year in recent years. There are no suspicious gaps or sudden jumps in the record, and the annual test pattern suggests the vehicle has been used regularly rather than standing idle, which helps avoid some of the moisture-related corrosion risks seen in vans with long stationary periods. The recurring front exhaust minor leak, noted in both the 2025 and 2026 tests, points to a deteriorating flexi-joint, manifold gasket, or corroded section rather than a catastrophic failure. On its own, it is not a structural risk, but it warrants a visual check for cracking, soot staining, and any signs of exhaust gas leaking toward the cabin. The 2025 test also recorded a nail in the offside rear tyre, and both front and rear tyres have repeatedly appeared close to the legal limit. That pattern suggests the owner tends to run tyres to minimum tread rather than replacing early. A buyer should inspect all four sidewalls for perishing, uneven wear, and age-related cracking, particularly if the van has spent time loaded or standing on rough surfaces. Brake wear is the more significant mechanical theme. The 2023 test flagged a worn front brake disc, and the 2026 failure revealed a scored and pitted offside front disc alongside binding. A binding caliper or sticking slider pin can cause uneven pad wear, overheated discs, and reduced fuel economy. The front brake setup has clearly seen harder use than the rear, which is typical for a front-heavy van. A buyer should inspect disc thickness, pad condition, caliper operation, and the condition of brake hoses and handbrake cables. The suspension and subframe deserve a close look as well, given the mileage and commercial duty cycle. Look for worn suspension bushes, leaking dampers, corroded spring seats, and any signs of rust jacking around the rear axle and outriggers. The windscreen advisory from May 2026, while not affecting the driver’s view, should be monitored for crack propagation, particularly if the van is used on unmade roads or in temperature swings.