2018 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · SC18 VWS

The vehicle presented passes its most recent DVSA MOT test conducted on 24 June 2026 with no defects recorded, and this outcome aligns with the broader trend across the inspection history. Since 2021, every annual test has resulted in a pass, with only a single isolated failure recorded on 29 July 2024, where a nearside front daytime running lamp was noted as not working and was subsequently rectified to allow a same-day pass. The absence of any structural advisories, brake or suspension warnings, or corrosion entries across seven consecutive tests suggests a stable and consistent maintenance profile rather than any progressive deterioration. For a prospective buyer, this continuity of clean passes is a strong indicator that the vehicle has been kept in a roadworthy condition throughout its life to date. The recorded mileage of 94,217 miles on an eight-year-old commercial vehicle equates to an average annual accumulation of approximately 11,777 miles, which is a fairly typical usage rate for a light commercial van of this type. There are no significant gaps in the annual MOT cadence, which suggests the vehicle has remained in regular service rather than being laid up for extended periods, and the mileage progression between tests appears consistent with steady operational use. While this annual figure is not considered high for a working van, it is sufficient to ensure that mechanical components such as the clutch, turbocharger, injectors, and suspension have been worked regularly rather than suffering the potential degradation associated with prolonged standing. The cumulative mileage, however, does place the van firmly within the bracket where wear-related components such as dual mass flywheels, timing belts, and suspension bushes may be approaching or due for replacement. Given the entirely clean MOT record with no advisories on brakes, tyres, suspension, or corrosion, attention should now shift to age and mileage related condition checks that fall outside the scope of the standard MOT inspection. The original fitment tyres should be inspected for sidewall perishing or cracking, which is common on vehicles of this age regardless of tread depth, and the spare or space saver should be checked for inflation and condition. Brake discs, even when passing with no measured wear, can exhibit surface corrosion or develop lipping through normal use, so the pedal feel should be assessed for any shudder or binding under slow-speed application, particularly after a cold start. The 12V battery, frequently overlooked, typically has a service life of four to six years and may be approaching replacement on an eight-year-old vehicle; a voltage drop test or battery health check at the point of sale would be prudent. Beyond the mechanical inspections, a prospective buyer should verify the documented service history, paying particular attention to the timing belt replacement interval, which on Renault Trafic diesel variants is commonly prescribed at five years or 90,000 miles and should therefore have been completed or be due imminently. Coolant, brake fluid, and automatic or manual transmission fluid all degrade through calendar ageing rather than purely by mileage, so confirmation of recent fluid services should be sought, particularly if the van has been used for short journeys where these systems receive less thermal cycling. On the test drive, listen for any suspension clonks over speed humps, irregular knocking from the front strut mounts or anti-roll bar bushes, and any reluctance or smoke from the turbocharged diesel engine under load. Inspect the underside for oil leaks from the engine sump, injector leak pipes, and power steering rack, all of which are common wear points on a Trafic of this age and mileage.