2018 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · GL68 FOU

The most recent MOT test on the 2018 Renault Trafic, conducted on 2026-03-04, resulted in a clean pass with only a single minor defect—damaged windscreens that do not impair visibility—and a single advisory regarding front brake pad wear. Despite this, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of persistent and escalating mechanical issues that require careful attention. The 2025 test passed without major defects, but the 2024 and 2023 tests introduced recurring advisories and major failures, particularly concerning the front suspension components. The 2024 MOT highlighted serious fluid leaks from both front shock absorbers, which were later confirmed as fractured coil springs in 2025, indicating a structural failure in the suspension system. These defects suggest that the vehicle’s suspension has been under significant stress, with fluid degradation and mechanical wear accelerating over time, warranting immediate investigation to prevent further deterioration. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 60,318 miles at the time of this assessment aligns with a typical annual usage rate of around 7,540 miles, which is consistent with its age of approximately eight years. This mileage range is neither unusually high nor particularly low for a Renault Trafic of this vintage, but the combination of moderate mileage and the presence of major suspension defects implies that the vehicle has either experienced prolonged periods of static use—leading to corrosion and standing corrosion risks—or has undergone heavy, potentially aggressive driving conditions that accelerate component wear. The absence of significant mileage gaps does not necessarily mitigate the risk of hidden mechanical issues, particularly in components like the suspension, which are prone to fatigue and fluid degradation over time. Given the MOT history, the prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension system, as the recorded fluid leaks and fractured coil springs indicate a critical failure mode. On a test drive, listen for irregular clunking noises from the front suspension during cornering or over bumps, which may signal loose or failing ball joints or worn bushings. Inspect the front suspension for uneven wear on the tyres, particularly on the offside, as this can indicate misalignment or suspension misalignment. Additionally, check for any oil leaks beneath the vehicle, focusing on the area around the front wheels, as this would confirm the presence of failing shock absorbers. The brake system should also be scrutinised, as the recurring thin brake pad advisories suggest that the discs may be corroding or binding, leading to reduced braking efficiency and potential shuddering when braking hard. If the brakes are binding, the calipers may need to be inspected for excessive corrosion or seized mechanisms. For the buyer’s immediate action plan, the vehicle’s age and usage profile necessitate several practical checks beyond the MOT test results. Given the eight-year age and moderate mileage, inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with low mileage if the vehicle has been stored in poor conditions. Verify the condition of the 12-volt battery, as prolonged static use can lead to sulphation or internal failure, and test its charge capacity to ensure it meets modern vehicle demands. The brake discs should be examined for corrosion or excessive wear, as standing corrosion can cause them to bind or seize, particularly in the front brakes where the advisories were noted. Fluid servicing is also critical; check the levels and condition of the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the suspension components have been compromised, consider replacing the front shock absorbers and coil springs as a matter of urgency, as the current failures suggest a higher likelihood of further structural failure. Lastly, ensure that the vehicle’s service history is up to date, particularly for the suspension and braking systems, as Renault recommends periodic inspections for components prone to wear in this model.