2015 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · LB65 FJC

The most recent MOT on 27 January 2026 was passed, the only advisory being that the front brake pads are wearing thin. Over the past six years the vehicle has shown a pattern of recurring wear items – front brake pads flagged each year, light oil misting from the nearside front shock absorber, progressive play in the nearside front anti‑roll bar D‑bush, and increasing corrosion of rear and front brake discs. Apart from a single failure in February 2023 for a defective registration‑plate lamp, the test outcomes have been passes, indicating that the owner has kept the vehicle road‑legal but that component wear is accumulating and will soon require remedial work. At 180 353 miles the van has covered roughly 16 400 miles per annum since its 2015 build, a mileage level well above the average for a light commercial vehicle of this age. Such utilisation accelerates wear on the engine, transmission, suspension, and braking system, and suggests that consumables are likely approaching the end of their service life. The high annual mileage also raises the probability of hidden fatigue in the chassis bushings and mounting points, and it is reasonable to expect that the cooling system, drive belts and universal joints have been subject to significant thermal and mechanical cycles. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the braking system. Inspect the thickness of both front and rear pads and measure the disc rotor depth on each wheel; any pads approaching the minimum legal limit or discs showing deep rust, scoring or uneven wear will need replacement. During a test drive listen for any shudder or pulsation through the pedal, especially under moderate braking, and feel for any pull to one side that could indicate a sticking caliper or uneven pad wear. The recurring oil mist on the nearside front shock absorber points to seal degradation – check for any visible oil on the shock body, a soft or “mushy” feel over bumps, and clunking noises that would signal impending failure and the need for a shock replacement or seal repair. The slight play reported in the nearside front anti‑roll bar D‑bush should be examined for excessive movement or cracked rubber; a worn bush can cause a vague clunk when cornering and affect handling stability. In addition to the brake and suspension items, verify that all exterior lights function correctly, particularly the registration‑plate lamp which has previously caused a MOT failure. Confirm that the flexi brake hose on the off‑side is correctly routed, as an incorrectly positioned hose can be prone to abrasion. Examine the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition; with the vehicle’s age, rubber perishing is a risk even if the tread appears adequate, so look for cracking, dry rot or bulges. A battery that is over ten years old should be load‑tested, and the engine oil, coolant and brake fluid should be checked for age‑related degradation – brake fluid, for example, should be replaced at least every two years to prevent moisture ingress. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection that addresses these points will give a clear indication of the imminent maintenance budget and the overall mechanical soundness of this high‑mileage 2015 Renault Trafic.