The Renault Trafic: a workhorse with teething problems

The Renault Trafic is a popular mid-size van that manages to win over many business users. Unfortunately, it also regularly gives owners headaches. Engine issues with the timing chain, turbo and injection system occur more often than you would like. Faults in the automatic gearbox and electronic sensors also crop up frequently. Yet the Trafic remains a well‑loved model. That has everything to do with its generous load capacity and versatility. Are you planning to buy a Trafic? Or is your van struggling with recurring faults? Here you can read which problems you can expect. We also explain how best to deal with them.

A popular choice in the van segment

The Renault Trafic is one of the best‑selling vans in its class. That is down to its practical dimensions. The different versions also play a role. There are two wheelbase lengths: the L1 with a short wheelbase and the L2 with a long wheelbase. On top of that you can choose between two roof heights. This results in load volumes from 5.2 to 8.6 cubic metres.

The model is widely used as a panel van for businesses. You also often see it as a crew cab with five seats. The nine‑seater version is also quite common. The standard specification already offers plenty of convenience. Think of parking sensors, lane departure warning and a workspace for your laptop. The interior is quieter and more comfortable than many rivals such as the Ford Transit. That makes the model attractive, especially for drivers who have to cover a lot of miles.

Looking for more information about problems with Renaults in general? There you will find useful extra tips for different models from the brand.

Reliability of the Renault Trafic

The Trafic has a mixed reputation when it comes to reliability. Many owners praise the van for its generous load space and driving comfort. At the same time, they report that certain components cause problems. Most complaints come from vans with high mileage. Vehicles that have been used intensively and have not been serviced consistently also tend to develop issues.

Minor annoyances are fairly common. Rattling interior trim is one example. Faulty sensors are another. These issues are irritating but rarely leave you stranded. More serious technical defects mainly involve the drivetrain, the turbo and electronic systems. Models from 2014 onwards more often have complaints about the automatic gearbox. Owners report this issue regularly.

Engine problems that crop up regularly

The diesel engines in the Trafic are generally powerful and economical. However, they do have a few recurring weak points. The timing chain is the most common engine issue. On older models the chain can stretch. Vehicles with overdue servicing also suffer from this. It causes rattling noises when starting. Do you let this go on for too long? Then the chain can break, with expensive engine damage as a result.

Another known problem concerns the injectors. The 2.0 dCi engines in particular are prone to this. Over time the injectors can become clogged. Leaks also occur. This causes the engine to run unevenly. You will see black exhaust smoke. Increased fuel consumption is another consequence. Replacing injectors is not a cheap repair: each one costs several hundred euros.

The turbo is a third risk area. With intensive use the turbine can become damaged. Insufficient lubrication is another cause. Owners then report a loss of pulling power. A whistling noise when accelerating is also a symptom. Are you unsure about the condition of the turbo? Then it is best to have a diagnostic test carried out. That way you can intervene in time and prevent the turbo from failing completely.

Complaints about the gearbox

The manual versions of the Trafic are generally reliable. Even so, problems can occur there as well. The clutch can wear prematurely on high‑mileage vans. Heavy loads accelerate wear, too. You will notice this from a higher biting point. A clutch that slips under load is another tell‑tale sign.

The automatic gearbox is more sensitive to faults. This concerns the EDC version. Owners regularly report jerky gear changes. Delayed responses also occur. Sometimes the gearbox even gets stuck in one gear. This is often caused by software errors. Defective sensors can also be to blame. Wear in the mechatronic unit is a third possibility. A software update can sometimes solve the issue. In other cases the gearbox has to be opened up. Sometimes it even needs to be replaced.

Electrical problems and warning lights

The Renault Trafic has quite a lot of electronics on board. And that is exactly where things often go wrong. Sensors can fail: this applies to the temperature sensor, the mass air‑flow meter and the coolant sensor. They cause fault messages on the dashboard. Those warnings have consequences: the van goes into limp mode and sometimes it will not start at all.

The AdBlue sensor can also cause problems. This sensor monitors emissions on diesel models. If it fails, the van may refuse to start until it has been replaced. The ABS system is another known trouble spot. Sensors become contaminated. Cables are damaged by roads with a lot of salt.

Many of these problems can be resolved with a reset. Sometimes replacing a small sensor is enough. However, the costs can quickly add up, especially when you do not immediately know which component is causing the fault.

Suspension, brakes and steering

The Trafic’s suspension is built to be robust. It has to cope with heavy loads. Intensive use does leave its mark, though. In particular, the bushes in the suspension arms can wear over time. Shock absorbers can also wear out. You will notice this from a wallowing rear end. Unsettled handling is another sign, especially when driving with a load.

The brakes are usually reliable. They do wear faster if the van often carries heavy loads. Check the thickness of the brake pads regularly. The discs also deserve attention. With lots of short trips the discs can rust, which leads to juddering when braking.

The steering rack can be prone to leaks, especially on older models. Do you notice that the power steering feels less smooth? Do you see fluid under the van? Then have the power steering pump and rack checked. Leaks can eventually cause the power steering to fail, which can put you in dangerous situations.

Bodywork and interior points of attention

The Trafic’s bodywork is solidly built. Even so, rust can appear, especially in areas exposed to salt and dirt. When buying, pay particular attention to the door edges. The wheel arches and the underside of the load compartment also deserve a close look. Models that have spent a lot of time on winter roads tend to suffer from this. On these vehicles rust often appears after just a few years.

The interior is functional and straightforward. With intensive use, wear is clearly visible. The seat upholstery can fray, especially on models used every day. Dashboard buttons can start to stick. Switches can fail completely. These are mainly cosmetic issues, but they can still be annoying in everyday use.

Maintenance and driving style make the difference

Many problems can be prevented with proper maintenance. Owners often encounter these issues. Replace engine oil at the prescribed intervals, and do the same for the filters. Intensive use calls for extra attention. Lots of short trips also require adjusted maintenance: in that case change the oil more frequently than the manufacturer recommends.

Your driving style also makes a difference. Do not put a heavy load on a cold engine. Avoid sudden hard acceleration. Do not drive short trips all the time. All these habits accelerate wear, for the engine, the turbo and the injectors. Give the engine time to reach operating temperature. Drive the last few kilometres home in a relaxed way so that the turbo can cool down properly.

Have the van checked regularly by a specialist garage. Choose one with Renault experience. They can detect small problems in good time so they do not grow into costly repairs.

Practical maintenance tips for owners

Do you want to prevent problems? Or extend the life of your Trafic? Keep the following tips in mind:

• Check the oil level regularly and top up if needed. Some engines use more oil as they get older.
• Have the timing chain replaced at 150,000 kilometres. Do you hear rattling noises when starting? Then have it replaced sooner.
• Make sure the AdBlue tank is sufficiently filled. An empty tank can cause starting problems.
• Clean sensors and electrical connections regularly. Do you often drive on snowy or wet roads? Then this is even more important.
• Have shock absorbers and suspension bushes checked at every service. Do you often carry heavy loads? Then this is even more crucial.
• Take the van for a longer drive now and then. This allows the diesel particulate filter to regenerate properly and the engine to reach full operating temperature.

What to do in case of specific faults?

Do you suspect a problem? Then there are a few checks you can do yourself. A warning light on the dashboard often points to a sensor fault. Have the fault codes read at a garage so you find out which component is to blame.

Are you experiencing engine problems, such as rattling noises or loss of power? Then stop using the van until you know what is going on. Further damage can lead to a complete engine overhaul, and that is an expensive business.

Does the gearbox shift jerkily or get stuck? First ask whether a software update is available. In many cases this will solve the issue and you will not need to replace any expensive parts.

Not exactly sure what is wrong? Then look for a specialist garage. Choose one with Renault expertise. They can usually track down the cause more quickly, saving you time and money.

What to look out for when buying a used Trafic

Do you want to buy a used Renault Trafic? Then pay close attention to the following points. This way you avoid expensive surprises. First check the service book. A fully stamped book is a good sign and should show regular services. If the service book is missing or there are big gaps between services, be cautious.

Start the engine and listen carefully for unusual noises. Rattling or ticking when the engine is cold can indicate a stretched timing chain. Whistling noises when accelerating may point to a worn turbo.

Check that the gearbox shifts smoothly. Also ask about any previous problems with the EDC automatic. During a test drive, pay attention to how the gearbox changes gear. It should do so without jerks or hesitation. Check whether any warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard and ask about their cause.

Inspect the bodywork for rust, especially around the wheel arches. Also check the door sills and the underside of the load area. Rust inside the load compartment can indicate leaks and water ingress. Check the condition of the tyres and brakes too. Uneven wear can point to problems with the suspension.

Ask about the mileage and compare it with the condition of the interior. High mileage usually goes hand in hand with wear on the seats, gear lever and steering wheel. If the two do not match, the odometer may have been tampered with.

The Renault Trafic remains a popular workhorse

The Renault Trafic has some recurring technical issues. Even so, it remains a favourite in the business market. Its generous load capacity makes it highly suitable, and its versatility and relatively comfortable driving experience also play a part. Many companies therefore choose this van. It is important, however, to be realistic about the potential problems and to be prepared for higher maintenance costs, especially with older examples.

Regular maintenance can prevent many issues. Also keep an eye out for early signs of wear. Are you buying a used Trafic? Then check it thoroughly. If in doubt, have an expert look over it with you. That way you will get the best out of this versatile van and avoid unpleasant surprises.