2015 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · LB65 FJD

The most recent DVSA examination on 5 May 2026 resulted in a pass, but it is notable that four separate items were logged, including two minor defects and two advisories, indicating that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, there are several items requiring attention. Comparing this with the two immediately prior tests in May 2024 and May 2025, both of which passed with no defects recorded, there is a discernible worsening in the maintenance trend, as the 2026 test has reverted to the pattern of flagged issues seen in 2022 and 2023. The reappearance of the smooth brake pedal advisory, previously noted in early 2022, together with newly recorded strut mount play, suggests that consumable wear is now catching up with the vehicle at this mileage, and a prospective buyer should treat the 2026 test as a timely warning rather than a clean bill of health. With 186,268 miles recorded over approximately 11 years, this Trafic is accumulating around 16,900 miles annually, which is notably high for a van of this type and well above the average for the sector. Such sustained heavy usage accelerates wear on drivetrain, suspension, and braking components beyond what would be expected on a lower-mileage equivalent, and it largely explains the recurring brake disc and suspension advisories. There are no significant gaps in the MOT record that would suggest extended standing periods, so issues related to long-term inactivity such as severe underbody corrosion or seized calipers are less likely, though they cannot be entirely ruled out on a commercial vehicle of this age. The consistent annual testing pattern confirms the van has been in regular service, which is mechanically informative but also means wear items are likely approaching or at replacement thresholds. Several recurring and emerging defects warrant close physical inspection before purchase. The most recent advisory concerning a smooth brake pedal is a safety-relevant item, as a polished pedal surface can lengthen stopping distances in wet conditions or with wet footwear, and the pedal rubber should be replaced as a matter of urgency; on a test drive, confirm firm, confidence-inspiring braking without any sponginess, and listen for grinding or pulsation that would confirm the pitted rear brake discs previously flagged in 2022 and 2023, which by now may well require replacement. The advisories on both front upper strut mounts showing slight play are particularly significant, as worn top mounts and bearing plates typically progress to knocking or clonking noises over bumps, vague steering, and uneven front tyre wear, so a test drive over varied surfaces should be conducted to listen for suspension noise. The deteriorated constant velocity boot on the nearside drive shaft is also a concern, as a torn boot will allow grease to escape and contaminants to enter the joint, ultimately leading to failure, and any clicking on full-lock turns during the test drive would confirm this. Beyond the flagged items, the high recorded mileage and the vehicle's commercial heritage mean a thorough physical inspection is essential. The front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint dust covers were already missing at the 2022 test, and although not flagged since, deteriorated or missing gaiters on suspension and steering components remain a common MoT failure point and should be visually examined for fresh grease contamination, perishing, or splits. Steering and suspension linkages generally warrant a thorough check for play, with particular attention to the track rod end that previously required replacement in January 2022, confirming that the recent work has held. Tyres should be inspected for both tread depth and age-related sidewall cracking given the mileage, brake fluid and coolant are likely overdue for replacement on a calendar basis regardless of condition, and the 12V battery should be load-tested as diesel vans of this age frequently suffer from cold-start issues. Finally, verify the timing belt or chain service interval, confirm the service book stamps align with the heavy usage, and listen for any diesel-specific concerns such as injector rattle, EGR hesitation, or turbo whistle on boost, all of which become more probable at this accumulated mileage.