2014 Renault Trafic 2.0L Diesel · SL14 FHS

The most recent MOT, dated 8 December 2025, resulted in a failure for the nearside front outer drive‑shaft CV boot, which was split and no longer protects the joint from contamination. The vehicle did pass the remainder of the test but carried advisories for nearside steering‑rack inner‑joint play and a fluctuating nearside rear service brake. Over the past three years the pattern has been one of recurring failures – CV boot split in both 2023 and 2025, tyre‑wear advisories in 2024, headlamp‑aim failures in 2024 and a major exhaust leak in 2023 – indicating a maintenance trend that is deteriorating rather than stabilising. At 129,369 mi the van averages roughly 10,800 mi per year, which sits squarely within normal private‑use levels for a 2014 model. The mileage does not suggest any periods of extreme short‑term abuse, nor does it reveal long stretches of inactivity that would raise concerns about fluid degradation from standing. Consequently the wear observed is more likely to be a function of age and normal kilometre‑related consumption rather than an unusually high mileage burden. A prospective buyer should focus on the items that have recurred. The CV boot on the nearside front drive shaft must be replaced and the joint inspected for bearing wear; any clicking or whine that changes with engine speed or when the vehicle is turned under load would confirm a developing fault. The steering‑rack inner joint play should be checked by applying torque to the wheel while the vehicle is stationary – a noticeable looseness or clunk when the wheel is turned points to impending rack wear. The rear service brake fluctuation may manifest as a pulsating pedal or uneven braking feel; a thorough inspection of the rear pads, discs and hydraulic balance is advisable, together with a test of the ABS sensor if fitted. Tyres on both front wheels are already at the legal tread limit, so replacement is imminent; examine the sidewalls for age‑related cracking and ensure the new tyres are correctly balanced and aligned to avoid premature wear. The previously noted wheel‑bearing noise, track‑rod end play and corroded rear coil springs should be listened for during a quiet drive – any humming, clunking on bumps or sagging rear ride height warrants immediate mechanical attention. Finally, the major exhaust leak recorded in 2023 should be verified; look for soot around joints, a strong exhaust smell in the cabin and any increase in emissions, as a leaking system can affect engine performance and fuel economy. Beyond the specific defects, the vehicle’s age calls for a series of calendar‑based checks. Inspect the battery terminals and perform a load test, as a 12‑year‑old battery is likely near the end of its service life. Verify that brake discs are free of deep rust pitting and that pads have sufficient thickness, especially given the standing‑brake advisories. Examine all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for colour change, sediment or moisture, and consider a complete fluid change if service records are absent. Finally, a visual survey of the chassis for rust, especially around the rear suspension mounting points and under‑body panels, will help confirm structural integrity before committing to purchase.