2016 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · WK16 ETF

The vehicle presents a concerning maintenance profile characterized by recurring mechanical failures and high mileage wear. The most recent test on 26 February 2026 at 164,612 miles resulted in a failure due to critical suspension component issues. The tester identified an offside front track rod end ball joint with excessive play and a nearside front shock absorber that was so damaged it required mole grips to function. These faults indicate a significant failure to address essential steering and suspension repairs promptly. While the vehicle passed immediately after a minor advisory for a registration plate lamp replacement, the underlying mechanical integrity suggests that heavy wear items have been neglected. At 164,612 miles over ten years, this Trafic averages 16,400 miles per annum, which is significantly above the average for its age. This high usage rate correlates with the degradation of the drivetrain and braking system. In the February 2025 test at 157,784 miles, the vehicle failed for an offside rear tyre being below the legal 1.6mm limit. Furthermore, the February 2024 test at 145,239 miles noted that the front brake discs were worn, pitted, and scored. The consistent pattern of failing on tyres and brake components suggests a reactive maintenance strategy where parts are only replaced upon inspection failure rather than through preventative servicing. The trend shows the vehicle moving into a phase where heavy component-level failures are becoming frequent. The transition from worn brake discs in 2024 to a failed shock absorber and loose track rod end in early 2026 indicates a decline in mechanical upkeep. A prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the entire suspension geometry, checking for perished bushes and leaking dampers that may not yet have been flagged by the tester. The high mileage combined with these recent structural failures suggests a high likelihood of further capital expenditure in the near future.