Watch out for the warning signs
Page 43
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
Looking for a second-hand Renault Trafic? CM’s checklist should help you get the best deal
Words: Kevin Swallow
Now 10 years old, the Renault Traic – along with its sister, the Vauxhall Vivaro – cut a swathe through the tired old designs that were being peddled by its competitors.
If you’re looking to buy a second-hand Traic, then here is all the essential information you need before parting with your cash.
Vehicle
The Renault Traic: Launched in 2001 and powered by 1.9and 2.5-litre diesel and 2.0-litre petrol engines, offering a 1,023kg to 1,212kg payload.
Driveline
Cam belt on diesel engine: check the paperwork to see if it has been changed. Limits are ive years and/or 72,000 miles. A broken belt can lead to engine failure. £270 discount if a change is due.
Warning lights: check that the dashboard lights for ABS, engine and stop light come on with ignition and go out after you start the engine. If the lights don’t come on, it could just be a blown lamp or a sign of a bigger problem. If they stay on, there could be a fault in the wiring loom, control unit or camshaft sensor. Have a diagnostic check done by a garage. Injectors: check the engine starts from cold and warm. If the vehicle has starting problems, the engine could cut out during the test drive. If it doesn’t start from cold, the problem might be the glow plugs, while an intermittent starting problem and cutting out point to the fuel pump. Poor starting also suggests worn injectors; have them fully inspected.
Turbo: let the engine warm up and then use the rear-view mirrors to check for black smoke when accelerating and listen for a whining noise. Black smoke suggests turbo wear; £600 discount.
Alternator: with mileages over 80,000 miles, check it’s been changed as ageing alternators can break up and cause more damage; budget £350. Gears: make sure gears are relatively smooth and easy to use with no crunching. Listen for whining or chattering noises and look for oil leaks at the back of the engine – all are signs the gearbox is on the way out; £1,000 discount. Steering: lock-to-lock should be light and easy, check engine bay for red oil. If in doubt, get it inspected.
Brakes: check date of last change and that changes have been carried out at least annually. Inspect pads for wear; budget £200.
External bodywork
Lower control arm bushes: drive over speed bumps and listen for a knocking noise from the front suspension. Knocking suggests that a lower control arm bush needs replacing; £125 discount.
Recalls:
(www.dft.gov.uk/vosa/apps/recalls) Issues: potential loss of brakes; engine might seize; front passenger belt; dashboard wiring; airbag; parking brake; tyre failure; suspension turret; handbrake. ■ • Additional information supplied by usedvanexpert.co.uk