2022 Renault Trafic SL28 B-Ness + Blue DCI 2.0L Diesel · ML72 XCU

The most recent DVSA recorded test dated 24 September 2025 resulted in a fail with several significant defects, although a pass was also recorded on the same date indicating the vehicle was presumably re-submitted after remedial work was carried out. The defects recorded at the time of failure are concerning from a roadworthiness perspective, particularly the dangerous offside front brake pad finding where the friction material had worn down to zero millimetres, effectively meaning the pad backing plate would have been making contact with the brake disc. The offside front brake disc was simultaneously flagged as significantly worn, suggesting this area of the braking system had been neglected or had reached an advanced stage of wear without timely intervention. Although the vehicle subsequently passed, a prospective buyer should satisfy themselves that all defective components were replaced with new, rather than refurbished or skimmed items, and that the work was evidenced by an invoice from a recognised garage. The presence of a dangerous defect at test is a notable red flag and warrants careful inspection of all braking components, including the nearside items which may have been at a similar state of wear. The recorded mileage of 70,329 miles on a four year old vehicle equates to an annual accumulation of approximately 17,582 miles, which is considerably higher than the average for a commercial van of this type. While high mileage on a commercial Renault Trafic is not unusual given its likely operational role, this rate of use does place greater demands upon consumable components and wearing parts. Items such as clutches, dual mass flywheels, turbochargers, suspension components, drivetrain mounts and braking systems will have been subjected to more frequent load cycles and thermal stress than would be the case with a lower mileage example. The annual mileage suggests the vehicle has likely been in regular commercial service rather than standing idle for extended periods, which is generally favourable for avoiding issues such as brake caliper seizure, brake disc corrosion from lack of use, and perishing of rubber components from prolonged standing. Given the brake-related defects recorded at the most recent test, a thorough physical inspection of the entire braking system is essential prior to purchase. The offside front disc and pads will have been replaced to achieve the pass, but the nearside front, both rear discs or drums, and the brake calipers require close examination for wear, corrosion, and free operation. On a test drive, listen for any grinding, squealing, or pulsation through the brake pedal, and check for pulling to one side under braking which would indicate a binding caliper or uneven pad wear. Inspect all visible brake flexihose and rigid pipework for corrosion, particularly given the age of the vehicle and the likelihood of winter road salt exposure typical for commercial use. The tyre cut noted at the time of failure is also worth investigating, as cuts in excess of the legal requirements reaching the ply or cords compromise structural integrity and suggest either kerbing damage or operation with insufficient tread depth and exposed structure. All four tyres should be examined for age-related cracking in the sidewalls, tread depth, and even wear patterns, as uneven wear across an axle can point to suspension or geometry faults. Beyond the braking and tyre concerns, the higher than average mileage warrants particular attention to the clutch operation, gearbox behaviour, and the condition of the diesel particulate filter and exhaust emissions system. On test, verify smooth gear selection without excessive baulk or crunching, and ensure there is no clutch slip under load, judder on take-up, or unexpected noise from the bellhousing area which could indicate dual mass flywheel failure. Listen for any abnormal turbo whistle, intercooler boost leaks, or excessive smoke from the exhaust on start-up or under acceleration, as the Blue dCi engine is sensitive to oil consumption and EGR valve fouling when mileage accumulates. Given that this is a 2022 vehicle now approaching four years old, regardless of the high recorded mileage, time-based servicing items must also be considered including brake fluid replacement which is commonly overlooked and degrades with moisture absorption over time, coolant condition, and the condition of the timing belt or chain depending on the specific Blue dCi variant. Request evidence of the full service history with stamps or invoices at the correct intervals, verify the cambelt or chain replacement schedule has been observed if applicable, and ensure a load test is performed on the 12 volt battery to confirm its state of health before purchase.