2012 Renault Trafic 2.0L Diesel · RF12 FDN

The most recent MOT, carried out on 4 August 2025, was passed. The test recorded only minor defects – a damaged windscreen, a faulty hazard warning switch and several advisories concerning tyre condition, a track‑rod ball joint and a modest oil leak. Compared with earlier years the pattern is moving from major failures in 2021 and 2023 to a clean pass, indicating that the vehicle’s maintenance trajectory is stabilising and the most serious faults have either been remedied or are now being monitored rather than causing outright failure. At 190 016 miles the 2012 Renault Trafic has logged an average of roughly 13 600 miles per annum, well above the typical UK commercial‑van usage of 8‑10 000 miles a year. This higher annual mileage suggests accelerated wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads, suspension bushings and drivetrain joints. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage, implying the vehicle has seen consistent use rather than long periods of storage, which would otherwise raise concerns about corrosion on the chassis or seized components. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the recurring oil leak noted in every MOT since 2021; while classified as non‑excessive, a visual inspection under the engine bay and a check for fresh oil stains on the ground after a short drive are essential. The advisories on the near‑side rear tyre and off‑side rear tyre perishing indicate age‑related rubber degradation – inspect the sidewalls for cracking, hardening or loss of tread, and verify that the tread depth meets the legal minimum. The off‑side front anti‑roll bar ball joint, the near‑side track‑rod end and the steering rack inner joints have all shown play or excessive wear; listen for clunking or knocking when turning the wheel at low speed, and feel for any looseness or wandering under braking. Brake pads were flagged as thin on both front wheels in 2023, so a thorough examination of pad thickness, disc condition and any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes is advisable. The parking‑brake fault recorded in 2021 should be confirmed as resolved, with the hand‑brake engaging firmly and holding the vehicle on a slight incline. Given the vehicle’s age of fourteen years, the buyer should also verify the health of time‑sensitive items. Check the 12‑volt battery for charge retention and any signs of sulphation, especially if the van has spent periods idle. Examine the coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids for proper level, colour and the presence of any sludge, and consider a fluid change if the service stamps are absent or dated beyond the recommended intervals. Finally, confirm that all exterior lighting – headlamps, position lamps and rear‑parking lamps – operate correctly, and that any windscreen damage does not impair visibility or compromise structural integrity. A comprehensive test drive that includes steady cruising, tight cornering, braking from moderate speed and a short hill hold will reveal most of the latent issues highlighted by the MOT history.