2010 Renault Trafic 2.0L Diesel · OU60 BVB

The most recent MOT test for the 2010 Renault Trafic was conducted on 2022-01-29, where it passed with a single minor fault related to the indicator switch, following a previous failure in the same test cycle due to offside front headlamp positioning. This suggests a brief period of recurring issues, likely linked to either a manufacturing defect or a minor alignment problem that was subsequently corrected, as subsequent MOTs up to 2022 have shown no further defects of this nature. The overall maintenance trend appears stable, with no evidence of worsening mechanical degradation beyond the isolated incidents of 2020 and 2015, which were primarily structural or component-related failures rather than progressive wear patterns. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 115,600 miles over approximately 16 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 7,225 miles per annum, which is typical for a car of this age and class, particularly if it has been used in moderate traffic conditions or for mixed purposes including commuting, family transport, or occasional leisure travel. The consistency of mileage accumulation suggests that the vehicle has not been subject to extreme overuse or prolonged periods of inactivity, which could otherwise accelerate wear on consumables like tyres, brakes, and fluids. However, the presence of tyre tears from the 2020 MOT indicates that the original tyres were compromised by structural failure, likely due to underinflation, sharp road debris, or excessive load, which could have been exacerbated by uneven wear patterns or poor suspension alignment over time. Given the historical MOT failures and advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear shock absorbers and front wheel bearings, as these were repeatedly flagged as insecure or defective in 2015. On a test drive, listen for excessive clunking or rattling from the rear during cornering or over bumps, which may indicate failing shock absorbers or loose suspension components. Check for uneven tyre wear or bulges, as the 2020 tyre failures suggest potential alignment or suspension misalignment issues. Inspect the wheel bearings for excessive play, which could cause grinding noises when turning or under acceleration. Additionally, verify that the front anti-roll bar linkage ball joints are secure and free from excessive dirt ingress, as this could lead to premature failure and reduced handling stability. Impending maintenance should include replacing the compromised wheel bearings and securing or replacing the loose shock absorber nuts, ideally within the next 5,000 to 10,000 miles to prevent further structural damage or safety risks. For the remaining mechanical and safety systems, the buyer should also conduct a visual and functional check of the brakes, focusing on disc warping, binding calipers, or uneven wear, which may indicate prolonged standing or uneven braking forces. Inspect the front windscreens for cracks or damage, as the 2020 MOT minor failure suggests the wiper system may have been neglected, and consider replacing the wiper blades if they are worn or ineffective. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, the tyre tread depth should be checked for legal compliance (minimum 1.6mm), and the sidewall should be examined for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity over time. The battery should be tested for voltage and capacity, as older vehicles of this age are more prone to failing due to internal corrosion or reduced charge retention. Finally, verify that all fluids—coolant, brake fluid, differential and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and free from contamination, as fluid degradation can accelerate wear on seals, bearings, and hydraulic components, particularly in a vehicle with its recorded usage history.