2007 Renault Trafic 2.0L Diesel · ST07 CLN

The most recent MOT test on 25 May 2024 resulted in a failure with three major defects and one minor, alongside an advisory on the front anti-roll bar linkage. The major items included an illuminated ABS warning lamp indicating a fault within the anti-lock braking system, an inoperative windscreen washer, and rear direction indicators displaying incorrect white colouration rather than the required amber. This outcome represents a notable deterioration compared to the preceding tests in January 2022 and January 2023, which passed without any advisories of substance. However, the underlying pattern reveals an older commercial vehicle that has accumulated ongoing advisories relating to brake pipe corrosion across multiple annual examinations, alongside a recorded failure in January 2021 concerning an excessively corroded offside front brake pipe, a split constant velocity joint boot, and a worn suspension arm ball joint. The recurrence of brake-related advisories from 2018 through 2023 suggests chronic corrosion progression rather than isolated defects, indicating that the braking hydraulic system warrants thorough pre-purchase inspection and likely proactive replacement of vulnerable sections. The recorded mileage of 130,499 miles over approximately nineteen years equates to an average annual accumulation of around 6,868 miles, which sits broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of this age and likely operational profile. The MOT history demonstrates consistent annual testing throughout the period reviewed, with mileage points implied by the regularity of submissions, though exact odometer readings between tests are not detailed here. There are no apparent extended standing periods, which is generally favourable for mechanical components such as brake discs, callipers, and drivetrain seals that suffer from inactivity-related corrosion and seizure. The relatively modest annual mileage does, however, mean calendar-based degradation of fluids, rubber components, and bodywork protection becomes more significant than wear from high mileage accumulation. Prospective buyers should approach this Trafic with particular attention to the braking system, given the recurring corrosion advisories on front brake pipes and the binding service brake observations recorded on multiple occasions. During a test drive, listen for any grinding, squealing, or pulsation through the brake pedal, and inspect for uneven tyre wear which may indicate calliper sticking or hydraulic imbalance. The anti-roll bar linkage ball joint play noted in the latest advisory should be physically checked by rocking the wheel at the joint, and the suspension arm ball joint previously failed should be examined for renewed wear. The ABS fault indicated by the warning lamp requires diagnostic interrogation to determine whether it relates to a wheel speed sensor, ring, or modulator unit, and any subsequent repair costs should be factored into negotiation. Beyond the recorded defects, a nineteen-year-old vehicle with this mileage profile demands attention to age-related deterioration regardless of test outcomes. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking and perishing, which commonly affects rubber of this vintage irrespective of tread depth, and verify that the spare and replacement tyres carry appropriate age markings. Examine the brake discs for surface corrosion, particularly around the outer edges, which can indicate prolonged standing or infrequent use, and check that all calliper slide pins operate freely without binding. Verify the 12-volt battery condition, as units of this age typically suffer diminished cranking performance, and confirm the timing belt replacement history if applicable to the diesel variant fitted. Inspect for fluid leaks beneath the vehicle, including coolant, power steering, and engine oil, and review the service book for evidence of regular coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil changes, as calendar-based fluid degradation is a common oversight on lower-mileage but older commercial vehicles such as this Renault Trafic.