2016 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · WJ16 FRL

The 2016 Renault Trafic’s most recent MOT test on 2025-08-18 confirms it passed without defects, though it failed the previous attempt just two days earlier at 148,649 miles. This pattern of consecutive tests—both at nearly identical mileages—suggests either a scheduling oversight or a last-minute correction before the vehicle’s annual renewal. The absence of recorded defects across all five tests implies no recurring mechanical issues were formally documented by the tester, though the lack of advisories or minor faults in the record cannot be relied upon to rule out hidden wear. The vehicle’s roadworthiness status remains technically compliant at this moment, but the abrupt failure just before passing raises questions about whether the tester overlooked critical components or if the vehicle was driven specifically to meet the test window. The recorded mileage of 148,650 miles over ten years—approximately 14,865 miles annually—falls within the upper range for a vehicle of this age, indicating consistent use rather than prolonged storage. The gap between tests varies significantly: a 29-day interval between the 2024 failures and pass, followed by a 12-month gap until the 2025 tests. The most recent 148,000-mile mark was reached in just under four months, suggesting either aggressive usage or a deliberate attempt to meet the MOT deadline. While this mileage pattern does not inherently signal imminent failure, it does warrant scrutiny of high-wear items such as suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake components, which are more likely to exhibit fatigue or corrosion under such usage. Given the absence of documented faults, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension geometry, particularly the rear axle and steering linkages, as these are common failure points in high-mileage vans. The brakes, though not flagged in tests, should be checked for uneven wear, binding calipers, or excessive corrosion on the discs and drums, especially if the vehicle was driven through wet or salted roads. Structural integrity is another critical area—examine the wheel arches, sills, and underbody for signs of rust penetration, which can compromise the chassis over time. The lack of advisories in the MOT history does not preclude these issues, so visual and functional checks are essential to confirm the vehicle’s true condition beyond the test record.