2015 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · SC65 XSO

The most recent MOT on 20 August 2026 was a pass, with only an advisory noting slight play in the nearside front lower suspension arm ball‑joint. This follows a re‑test on 19 August 2026 that failed for excessive play in the nearside front track‑rod end ball‑joint, indicating that the major steering defect was rectified between the two examinations. Earlier in the record there were several serious failures in 2025 (rear parking‑brake inoperative, fractured rear coil spring, front shock absorber leak) which have also been cleared, and prior years show only minor lamp faults and routine advisories. Overall the trend is one of improvement, with the vehicle now only presenting minor wear‑related advisories after the more critical faults have been addressed. At 79,711 mi the van averages roughly 7,200 mi per year over its eleven‑year life, which sits comfortably within normal UK commercial‑vehicle usage. The mileage progression is steady with no evidence of large, undocumented spikes that would suggest hidden high‑kilometre abuse. This moderate annual run‑rate means wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components should be proportional to age rather than excessive mileage, but the vehicle’s history of standing periods (as implied by the 2025 rear coil‑spring fracture) warrants attention to age‑related degradation. A prospective buyer should give particular focus to the front steering and suspension assembly. Verify that the nearside track‑rod end and lower arm ball‑joints are free of play by checking for any clunk or looseness when the wheel is rocked at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions; excessive play can manifest as wandering steering or uneven tyre wear. Inspect the front shock absorbers for any oil seepage around the mountings and test for bounce by applying firm pressure to each corner of the bonnet – a lingering rebound indicates reduced damping. The rear coil spring that previously fractured should be examined for cracks or corrosion, and the rear parking‑brake mechanism must engage firmly on both sides; a weak or uneven pull could signal worn shoes or cable issues. The front brake discs, flagged in 2021 as pitted, should be measured for thickness and inspected for deep scoring that could lead to brake shudder under hard braking. Tyre condition demands close scrutiny: the off‑side rear tyre was noted as damaged and perishing, so confirm that the tread depth exceeds 1.6 mm across the tread width and that the sidewalls show no cracks, bulges or nail punctures. Check all four tyres for uniform wear patterns, which can reveal mis‑aligned suspension or worn steering joints. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect the 12 V battery for corroded terminals and test its cranking voltage; a battery older than four years often requires replacement. Examine all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for correct quantity and signs of contamination, and consider a full service interval change if the last documented service predates the 2023 oil‑leak advisory. Finally, look for any rust on chassis mounting points, under‑body panels and wheel arches, as prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion that may affect structural integrity over time.