2016 Renault Trafic 1.6L Diesel · WN16 BWH

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Renault Trafic, conducted on 2025-09-30, resulted in a pass with a single minor defect—an offside front lower windscreen damage that does not impair the driver’s field of vision—and a single advisory regarding a front oil leak, which is not considered excessive. Despite this, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories over the past five years, particularly concerning brake components and suspension joints. Notably, the 2021 MOT highlighted critical brake pad thickness below the legal minimum on both the offside front and near-side rear, resulting in a dangerous failure, while subsequent tests have consistently noted worn or pitted brake discs and slight play in near-side front track rod end ball joints. These recurring issues suggest a lack of timely maintenance or potential underlying wear progression, though the vehicle has passed each MOT since, indicating either effective corrective action or that the defects are not yet severe enough to fail the test outright. The overall maintenance trend appears stable in terms of passing MOTs, but the advisories and potential brake pad wear warrant closer attention to prevent a repeat of the 2021 failure. The recorded mileage of 144,579 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a high annual usage rate of around 14,458 miles per year, which is significantly above the average for its age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, as well as internal engine and transmission parts. The absence of long periods of inactivity or light usage means that the vehicle has likely experienced continuous stress on its drivetrain, exhaust system, and roadholding components. This pattern is particularly concerning for the suspension, where the repeated advisories of slight play in the near-side front track rod end ball joints could indicate progressive joint degradation or misalignment, potentially leading to uneven tyre wear, steering vibrations, or even suspension failure if left unaddressed. Additionally, the high mileage may have contributed to the observed brake wear, as frequent braking cycles exacerbate pad and disc erosion. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the brake system and suspension components. Begin with a thorough inspection of the brake discs and pads, checking for signs of excessive wear, scoring, or glazing on the discs, which could indicate prolonged braking or hydraulic issues. Listen for any grinding noises when applying the brakes, which would confirm pad wear down to the minimum legal thickness, and test the pedal feel for firmness or sponginess, which may signal fluid degradation or hydraulic failure. The suspension should be inspected for any signs of oil leaks around the ball joints, which could confirm the DVSA advisories of slight play. Visually check the track rod ends for excessive wear or swelling, and listen for clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may indicate loose or failing suspension components. Additionally, the front oil leak advisory should be addressed promptly, as oil leaks can lead to reduced engine lubrication and increased wear if not repaired. Beyond the immediate advisories, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural and fluid integrity. Given the age and mileage, the tyres should be checked for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur from prolonged exposure to UV light and temperature fluctuations, even if the tread remains legal. The 12V battery should be tested for charge capacity and corrosion on terminals, as older vehicles are more prone to battery failure due to internal degradation over time. The engine oil should be checked for colour and consistency, with a recommendation to replace it if it appears dark or has carbon deposits, as oil degradation accelerates with age and high mileage. The exhaust system should be inspected for rust or structural weaknesses, particularly in the catalytic converter and mufflers, as corrosion can compromise emissions control and structural integrity. Lastly, verify the service history for the timing belt replacement, which is critical for a ten-year-old vehicle to prevent catastrophic engine failure, and ensure all fluid levels—coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—are topped up and in good condition. If the vehicle has been in storage for extended periods, additional checks for standing corrosion on the chassis, brake components, and fuel system are advisable.