2017 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · MF67 DFZ

The most recent MOT, dated 22 August 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle presently satisfies the statutory safety and emissions criteria. Over the preceding five years the record shows a mixture of passes, isolated advisories and two failures – the 2020 failure for front brake disc wear, anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball‑joint wear and tyre tread, and the 2024 failure for front headlamp aim. Apart from the headlamp correction, the later tests have been clean, suggesting that the majority of the earlier wear items have been addressed and that the overall maintenance trajectory is stabilising rather than deteriorating. At nine years old the van has logged 144,766 miles, an average of roughly 16,000 miles per annum. This is above the typical usage pattern for a light commercial vehicle of this age and points to a relatively high cumulative load on the drivetrain, suspension and braking components. The mileage progression appears consistent year‑on‑year with no obvious long‑term storage periods, which means the wear is likely to be mechanical rather than calendar‑related. Consequently, consumables such as brake discs, pads, tyre tread and suspension bushings will be closer to the end of their service lives than on a lower‑mileage example. When you inspect the van, give particular attention to the front brake assembly – the 2020 advisory noted pitting on the discs and the 2023 advisory flagged fluctuating service‑brake pressure. Look for any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes, excessive pedal travel, or uneven pad wear. The anti‑roll‑bar linkage ball joint on the nearside front was flagged as excessively worn; check for any clunking or looseness when pushing down on the front wheel or when negotiating bumps, and verify that the bushings and ball joints are free of play. The headlamp aim failure in 2024 should have been corrected, but a quick visual check of the low‑beam illumination pattern will confirm compliance. Examine both front tyres for tread depth, sidewall condition and any signs of uneven wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension components. Beyond the specific items noted in the MOT history, a vehicle of this age and mileage should be examined for age‑related degradation. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking or perishing, especially if the van has spent periods stationary, and verify that the tread is well above the legal minimum. Check the 12‑volt battery for voltage and cranking performance, as prolonged idle periods can reduce capacity. Look for corrosion on chassis mounting points, exhaust brackets and under‑body panels, and ensure that all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – are topped up and that the brake fluid has been changed within the last two years, as it absorbs moisture over time. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and any recommended interval services, which will give you confidence that the van has been maintained in line with Renault’s schedule.