2019 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · PL68 FSF

The most recent MOT inspection for this Renault Trafic on 19 June 2026 resulted in a pass, but the history indicates a concerning downward trend in mechanical maintenance. While the vehicle passed after a significant failure on 17 June 2026, the transition from minor advisories in 2025 to a dangerous failure in 2026 suggests that component degradation is being neglected rather than addressed proactively. The recent failure involved critical safety items, including a dangerous brake pad deficiency and a major track rod end defect, which indicates that wear and tear is progressing rapidly toward the limits of roadworthiness. With a recorded mileage of 65,815 over approximately seven years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 9,400 miles per year. This level of usage is considered typical for a light commercial vehicle of this age and suggests it has not been subjected to excessive heavy-duty hauling or extreme high-mileage motorway work. However, the moderate mileage does not insulate the vehicle from the mechanical issues observed in the MOT history. The pattern of wear suggests that while the vehicle is not being driven excessively, the components are reaching the end of their service life, likely due to age-related degradation or a lack of preventative maintenance during scheduled service intervals. A prospective buyer must exercise caution regarding the braking system and steering geometry. The recent failure for imbalanced rear brakes and worn rear discs, combined with the previous advisory for pitted front discs, suggests the braking system requires a comprehensive overhaul rather than just pad replacement. During a test drive, you should listen for any grinding noises during deceleration, feel for a pulsating sensation through the brake pedal which indicates warped or scored discs, or any pulling to one side when braking. Furthermore, the recent failure of the offside front track rod end and the previous advisories for suspension arm bushes mean the steering and suspension assembly is compromised. You should listen for clunking or knocking sounds when turning the steering wheel at low speeds or when driving over uneven road surfaces, as these are classic symptoms of excessive play in ball joints or worn bushings. Additional attention should be paid to the wheel bearings and tyre condition. The 2026 failure noted a rough offside front wheel bearing, which can manifest as a constant humming or droning noise that increases in pitch with vehicle speed; this should be checked thoroughly to ensure the replacement was of sufficient quality. The MOT history also shows recurring issues with tyres being worn close to the legal limit or showing edge wear, which often points to underlying alignment issues caused by the aforementioned steering defects. Inspect the sidewalls of all tyres for cracking or perishing, particularly given the vehicle's age, and verify that the recent steering and braking repairs have been documented in the service history to ensure the vehicle's structural and mechanical integrity is truly restored.