2018 Renault Trafic: known problems and what to check
Too few Renault Trafic cars first registered in 2018 had an MOT during 2025 for reliable MOT figures. Here’s what we do know about the 2018 Renault Trafic, and what to check before you buy one.
Known faults on the 2018 Renault Trafic
Reported by owners, mechanics and buying guides for this model and age. Check which engine the car has, as some apply to one engine only.
- All engines
Many recalls
Recalls covered rear axle bolts not tight enough (over 18,000 vans), cracked EGR pipes, parking brake cables, the secondary parking brake, front wishbone nuts, brake servo bolts, the front bench seat and rear seatbelts.
At the viewing: Ask a Renault dealer to check the VIN for outstanding recalls.
Source: Haynes: Renault Trafic III common problems (2014 on)
- Diesel with AdBlue
AdBlue warning and no-start countdown
A poor seal on the AdBlue tank brings on a warning that the engine won’t restart after a set distance.
At the viewing: Make sure no AdBlue warning shows.
Source: Haynes: Renault Trafic III common problems (2014 on)
- Diesel
Turbo failure
Turbos fail when the engine is often switched off while still very hot.
At the viewing: Listen for whistling and watch for smoke or lost power.
Source: Haynes: Renault Trafic III common problems (2014 on)
- Diesel
Particulate filter warning
A failed exhaust flap actuator brings on the engine light with a particulate filter pressure code.
At the viewing: Make sure the engine warning light goes out.
Source: Haynes: Renault Trafic III common problems (2014 on)
- Diesel
Cold, damp no-start
Moisture in the air intake can stop it starting in cold, damp weather.
At the viewing: Ask whether it has had starting trouble in winter.
Source: Haynes: Renault Trafic III common problems (2014 on)
Questions to ask the seller before buying a 2018 Renault Trafic
Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.
- Have all the recalls been done? Can a Renault dealer confirm from the VIN?
- Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?
What to check on a 2018 car
- MOT history
Check the reg below: its MOT history shows what has been failed or advised, and whether the mileage adds up.
- Service history
Look for regular servicing and receipts for big jobs like a cambelt or clutch.
- Finance and write-offs
MOT records don’t show outstanding finance or insurance write-offs. A history check does.
- Test drive
Listen for knocks over bumps, check every warning light goes out, and make sure the gears and brakes feel right.
Looking at a Renault Trafic?
Check the actual car: its own MOT history, mileage and what to ask the seller. Free, no sign-up.
Other years
Every year of the Renault Trafic compared
| Year | MOT tests | Most flagged |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2025 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2024 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2023 | – | Too new for MOT data |
| 2022 | – | Too few tests |
| 2021 | – | Too few tests |
| 2020 | – | Too few tests |
| 2019 | – | Too few tests |
| 2017 | – | Too few tests |
| 2016 | – | Too few tests |
| 2015 | – | Too few tests |
| 2014 | – | Too few tests |
| 2013 | – | Too few tests |
| 2012 | – | Too few tests |
| 2011 | – | Too few tests |
| 2010 | – | Too few tests |
| 2009 | – | Too few tests |
| 2008 | – | Too few tests |
| 2007 | – | Too few tests |
| 2006 | – | Too few tests |
| 2005 | – | Too few tests |
Where this comes from: how many are on the road is from the Department for Transport’s vehicle licensing statistics (DVLA records), counted by the year each car was first registered. Known faults are from UK buying guides, in our own words, with links. How we score