2017 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · GA55 AMW

The most recent MOT test for this 2017 Renault Trafic was conducted on 2024-12-23, resulting in a clean pass with no recorded defects. However, the preceding MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring and escalating mechanical issues, particularly concerning the front suspension ball joints and rear coil spring. The vehicle failed three separate MOTs between 2022 and 2024, with two of those failures being classified as "Dangerous" due to the nearside track rod end ball joint exhibiting severe wear that posed a serious risk of detachment, alongside excessive play in the offside ball joints. These failures suggest a systemic failure in the suspension assembly, likely due to wear progression from repeated stress cycles, with the most critical component—the nearside rear coil spring—being fractured or broken in 2024. While the 2024-12 MOT passed, the presence of advisories such as play in the steering rack inner joints and worn rear tyres approaching legal limits indicates ongoing wear that may not yet have reached failure thresholds but warrants close monitoring. The recorded mileage of 87,569 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents an average annual usage of approximately 9,730 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class, particularly if it has been used for both personal and commercial purposes. However, the MOT failures and advisories suggest that the vehicle has either been driven at a higher rate than typical or has undergone significant stress, which accelerates wear on critical components like suspension bushings, ball joints, and coil springs. The presence of multiple failures in a short period—particularly the nearside rear coil spring fracture—could imply that the vehicle has been subjected to rough handling, excessive load, or poor maintenance practices, leading to accelerated deterioration in the suspension system. Buyers should be cautious of any history of excessive wear, particularly if the vehicle has been used for towing or heavy loads, as this would further exacerbate the risk of suspension failure. Given the MOT history, this Renault Trafic presents a high-risk purchase due to the critical and recurring failures in the suspension system. The nearside track rod end ball joints and rear coil spring failures are particularly concerning, as they represent potential safety hazards if left unrepaired. On a test drive, the buyer should listen for unusual noises from the front and rear suspension, such as clunks or rattles when driving over bumps, which may indicate loose or worn suspension components. Uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the offside rear tyre, could also suggest misalignment or suspension issues. The steering should be checked for excessive play or binding, which may indicate worn steering rack components or loose linkages. Immediate attention should be given to repairing or replacing the nearside rear coil spring and all track rod end ball joints, as these failures are critical to the vehicle’s structural integrity and roadworthiness. Additionally, the steering rack inner joint play advisory suggests further investigation into the steering system’s condition, as excessive play can lead to steering instability or premature wear on tyres and suspension components. For the buyer, this vehicle’s age and the documented maintenance history necessitate a thorough pre-purchase inspection beyond the MOT records. Given the high mileage and the wear observed in the suspension, the buyer should verify the physical condition of the coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushings, ensuring no further fractures or excessive wear have occurred. The steering system should be inspected for leaks or binding, and the steering rack components should be checked for signs of corrosion or excessive play. The brake system should also be examined, as the MOT history does not indicate any brake-related failures, but the vehicle’s age and usage may have contributed to potential brake disc corrosion or caliper binding, particularly if the vehicle has been left standing for prolonged periods. Tyres should be checked for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileages due to age-related degradation, and the tread depth should be confirmed to be above the legal minimum. The engine’s emissions system should also be inspected, as the 2024 MOT failure highlighted smoke levels exceeding specified limits, which could indicate issues with the catalytic converter or exhaust system. Finally, the battery should be tested for health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to battery failure, and fluid levels in the cooling system and transmission should be checked for any signs of degradation or leaks. If possible, a professional inspection by a qualified mechanic experienced with Renault vehicles would be advisable to assess the full extent of the suspension and other potential wear issues.