2005 Renault Trafic 1.9L Diesel · ST55 SWY

The 2005 Renault Trafic received its latest MOT on 2025-08-01, passing with two advisories: near-side front brake pipe corrosion combined with grease contamination, and a slight play in the near-side front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint. While the vehicle’s MOT history shows a pattern of recurring advisories—particularly concerning brake pipe corrosion and structural integrity issues—there has been no evidence of major failures or worsening conditions since 2024-04-10, where the test was clean. The presence of consistent minor issues suggests a vehicle that has been subject to some wear and tear but has not yet reached critical failure points. The failure in 2022-03-24 was due to structural corrosion affecting rigidity, which is a serious concern and indicates that the vehicle may have been exposed to prolonged standing or harsh environmental conditions. However, the fact that it passed subsequent tests implies that the corrosion may not have progressed significantly, or that the rigidity issue was isolated to a specific area that was not deemed to affect overall roadworthiness. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 133,029 miles at a current age of approximately 21 years represents an average annual usage of around 6,335 miles, which is typical for its class and age. This rate of usage suggests moderate to heavy use rather than light or infrequent operation, which could accelerate wear on consumables, suspension components, and braking systems. The absence of significant mileage gaps between MOT tests implies that the vehicle has been in regular use, potentially contributing to the observed corrosion and mechanical wear. However, the consistent advisories on brake pipe corrosion and anti-roll bar linkage play warrant closer attention, as these may indicate underlying issues such as poor maintenance, fluid leaks, or structural fatigue that could escalate if left unaddressed. A test drive should also assess for any signs of excessive brake pedal travel, unusual noises from the anti-roll bar linkage, or fluid leaks around the brake system. Given the recurring advisories on brake pipe corrosion and the near-side rear tyre nail, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system. The corroded brake pipe, particularly when grease is present, could indicate a history of leaks or improper maintenance, which may have compromised brake performance or led to moisture ingress. On a test drive, listen for any unusual noises from the brakes, such as grinding, squeaking, or a spongy pedal feel, which could signal worn brake pads, warped discs, or binding calipers. Inspect the brake system visually for signs of fluid leaks, particularly around the hoses and pipework, and check for uneven tyre wear or cracks in the brake discs that may suggest brake shudder or overheating. Additionally, the slight play in the near-side front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint should be monitored, as excessive movement could lead to suspension instability or premature wear of suspension components. If the play is confirmed, a replacement may be necessary to prevent further damage to the suspension or steering system. For the broader vehicle inspection, the buyer should focus on the structural integrity and environmental exposure history, given the previous MOT failure related to corrosion. Check the bodywork for signs of rust, particularly around the near-side rear wheel arch, which may have been affected by the nail in the tyre or prolonged exposure to moisture. Inspect the near-side front wheel arch and underbody for any signs of corrosion, as this area is often prone to rust when a vehicle stands for extended periods. Verify the condition of the near-side front position lamp, which failed as a major issue in 2022, and ensure that the obligatory mirror and fog lamp are fully functional. The registration plate lamp minor failure should also be addressed, as a non-working lamp can result in a failed MOT if the vehicle has multiple lamps. For fluid systems, given the vehicle’s age and usage, check the condition of the brake fluid reservoir for signs of contamination or fluid degradation, as brake fluid absorbs moisture over time and can lead to reduced braking effectiveness. Lastly, consider the 12V battery health, as older vehicles like this may struggle with starting if the battery is aged or the alternator is failing, particularly if the vehicle has been left unused for prolonged periods. A practical next step would be to verify the service book for any recorded maintenance, such as suspension bush replacements or brake system servicing, which could provide insight into the vehicle’s maintenance history.