2018 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · PL18 BER

The 2018 Renault Trafic has passed its most recent MOT on 10 March 2026, though with several non-serious but notable issues flagged at 57,042 miles. The overall maintenance trend is concerning—recurring suspension and steering faults suggest inconsistent upkeep rather than a sudden deterioration. The steering rack has exhibited persistent play and joint wear since 2023, while suspension components like ball joints and shock absorbers have shown gradual degradation. The most recent test confirms light oil misting on the near-side front shock absorber and slight play in both front suspension arm ball joints, indicating these areas require urgent attention. While no serious structural failures or safety-critical defects have been recorded, the accumulation of minor but recurring issues points to deferred maintenance rather than a well-maintained vehicle. The mileage progression reveals a steady but typical usage pattern for a vehicle of this age, averaging around 7,130 miles annually. There are no abrupt jumps or prolonged gaps in recorded mileage, though the absence of a test between 2024 and 2026 means no intermediate checks were performed. The most significant interval is between the 2023 failure and the 2024 pass, where the vehicle accumulated 7,653 miles without inspection—a period that could have allowed further deterioration of the steering rack or suspension. The 2025 test at 48,638 miles also noted rear tyre damage, suggesting basic upkeep such as tyre rotation or pressure checks may have been neglected. A buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the steering rack assembly, particularly the near-side inner joint and gaiter, as these were the primary causes of failure in 2023. The suspension system warrants close examination, with a focus on the front ball joints (both suspension arm and track rod end) and shock absorbers, which show signs of wear and oil leakage. Brake discs at both front and rear have been flagged for pitting and scoring in multiple tests, indicating they may be approaching their serviceable limit. Structural integrity should also be checked, especially around the wheel arches and suspension mounts, as the absence of corrosion mentions in recent tests does not guarantee its absence elsewhere. Independent verification of these components is essential before purchase.