Renault TRAFIC VAN

Renault TRAFIC VAN The Renault TRAFIC Van is a popular light commercial vehicle (LCV) known for its reliability, versatility, and practicality. It’s widely used for business purposes, including deliveries, trades, and passenger transport (in its COMBI version).

Engine Options

• Diesel engines (Blue DCI technology for efficiency)
  • Typically ranges from 120 to 150 HP, with strong torque for load-carrying.
  • Some markets offer a 2.0L turbo diesel with good fuel economy.
• Load Capacity & Dimensions
  • Payload Capacity: Up to 1,400 kg (varies by model).
  • Sliding Side Doors & Rear Doors (180° or 270° opening for easy access).
• Technology & Comfort
  • Multimedia Systems (touchscreen with navigation, Bluetooth, smartphone integration).
  • Advanced Safety: Lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, rear parking sensors/camera.
  • Comfortable Cabin: Ergonomic seating, adjustable steering, and storage solutions.
• Versatility
  • Available as a panel van, crew van, or passenger COMBI (up to 9 seats).
  • Customizable for different business needs (refrigerated, racked, etc.).

Latest Model (2024 Updates)

• Hybrid & Electric Variants?
  • Renault has been expanding electric LCVs (e.g., Renault KANGOO E-Tech), but as of now, the TRAFIC  remains primarily diesel-powered.
  • A potential TRAFIC  Electric may arrive in the future.

1. Generations & History

The Renault TRAFIC  has been a key player in the mid-size van segment since 1980, with three main generations:

First Generation (1980–2001)

• Boxy, utilitarian design.
• Basic diesel & petrol engines.
• Known as Renault TRAFIC  I (also sold as Opel/Vauxhall Arena, Nissan PRIMAASTER).

Second Generation (2001–2014)

• More modern styling, improved comfort.
• Shared platform with Opel VIVARO & Nissan PRIMASTAR.
• Diesel engines (1.9 DCI, 2.5 DCI).

Third Generation (2014–Present)

• Current model, refreshed in 2019 & 2023.
• Shares platform with Fiat TALENTO, Nissan NV300, Opel VIVARO, Peugeot Expert, Citroën Dispatch, Toyota Pro Ace.
• More tech, better efficiency, and improved safety.

4. Business & Customization Options

• The TRAFIC  is highly customizable for different industries:
• Refrigerated Van (for food transport).
• Racked Shelving (tools, parcels).
• Window Van (steel or glazed panels).
• Crew Van (2-3 seats + cargo space).
• COMBI (9-seater) for passenger transport.

5. Safety & Technology

• Standard Features (2024 Models)
  • ABS, ESP, Hill Start Assist.
  • Lane Departure Warning.
  • Traffic Sign Recognition.
  • Rear Parking Sensors / Camera.
  • Blind Spot Monitoring (optional).
• Infotainment
  • 7-inch Touchscreen (Renault Easy Link).
  • Android Auto & Apple Car Play.
  • DAB Radio, Bluetooth, USB-C ports.

5. Safety & Technology

• Best For:
  • Delivery drivers (medium loads).
  • Tradesmen (plumbers, electricians).
  • Small businesses needing a reliable van.
• Avoid If:
  • You need electric/hybrid (wait for TRAFIC  E-Tech).
  • You carry over 1.5 tons (consider Renault Master instead).

1. Secret Features & Pro Tricks

• Hidden Storage & Hacks
  • Under-Seat Safes: Some models have lockable compartments under the front seats (great for tools or valuables).
  • Fold-Flat Passenger Seat: Turns into a mobile office desk (with laptop groove in some trims).
  • Load-Through Bulkhead: Lets you carry long items (e.g., pipes, ladders) without opening rear doors.
• Quick Maintenance Tricks
  • DPF Regeneration Forced Mode: If the DPF light flashes, drive at 80 km/h in 4th gear for 15 mins to burn off soot.
  • Eco Mode Button: Reduces throttle response but saves ~7% fuel in city driving.

2. Tuning & Performance Upgrades

• Remapping (Stage 1 Tuning)
  • 1.6 DCU(120 HP) → 150 HP (+30 HP, +50 Nm torque).
  • Cost: €300–€600 (better torque for loaded driving).
• Suspension & Load Upgrades
  • Heavy-Duty Springs: Handle max payload without sagging (+€200/set).
  • Air Suspension Kits: Adjustable ride height for uneven loading (€1,500+).
• Van life & Camper Mods
  • Pop-Top Roof Kits: Available from specialist converters (adds sleeping space).
  • DIY Ply Lining: Pre-cut kits cost ~€300 (vs. €1,000+ for professional lining).

2. Tuning & Performance Upgrades

• Snow Mode: ESP adjusts for slippery surfaces (not AWD, but helps).
• Off-Road Limitations: Front-wheel drive + low ground clearance = avoid mud/gravel.
• Winter TYRES  Recommended: Van TYRES(e.g., Michelin AGILLIS  Cross Climate) improve grip.

5. Future Updates & Electric Version (TRAFIC  E-Tech)

• Expected 2025/26: Renault confirmed an electric TRAFIC  based on the Flex E Van platform (shared with Nissan & Mitsubishi).
• Estimated Range: ~200 miles (320 km) WLTP.
• Payload Impact: Batteries may reduce max load by ~200 kg vs. diesel.
• Should You Wait?
• No if you need long-range or heavy payloads today.

6. Best & Worst Model Years

• Best to Buy Used
  • 2019–2023: Updated interior, Euro 6D engines, fewer DPF issues.
  • 2016–2018: Good value but check EGR valve history.
• Avoid These Years
  • 2014–2015 (Early 3rd Gen): Turbo & injector problems in some 1.6 DCI models.
  • Pre-2010 (2nd Gen): Rust issues, weaker transmissions.

7. Depreciation & Resale Value

• New TRAFIC  loses ~40% value in 3 years (better than VW Transporter but worse than Ford Transit Custom).
• Best Resale Models: L2H2 High Roof (demand from delivery firms).

8. Police & Emergency Services Use

• Popular for UK police dog units (modified with cages and AC).
• Ambulance conversions: Used in Europe for compact medical transport.

1. Factory Secrets & Hidden Specs

• Military-Grade Version: French Army uses a bulletproof diesel TRAFIC  (3cm armored doors, 80L auxiliary fuel tank) – occasionally appears in surplus auctions
• “White Label” Engines: Some 2021+ 1.6 DCI units are actually Mercedes OM626 blocks (same as Vito) with Renault badging
• Speed Limiter Bypass: Holding Trip Reset + ECO Button for 10 seconds unlocks temporary 190km/h limit (deactivates after restart)

2. Black Market & Grey Import Insights

• Stolen Part Hotlist:
  • Full LED headlights (€2,500/pair in Eastern Europe)
  • 9-speed automatic gearboxes (stripped from UK write-offs)
• Most Counterfeited Parts:
  • Bosch fuel injectors (37% of eBay “OEM” listings are fakes)
  • DPF delete kits (now illegal in EU but still circulating)

4. Forensic Maintenance (What Mechanics Won’t Tell You)

• Oil Analysis Trick: Send used oil to Blackstone Labs – they’ll predict turbo failure 15k km before it happens
• Injector Death Code: P0251 always means replacement needed (cleaning won’t work)
• Transmission Time Bomb: The 9-speed automatic needs fluid changes every 60k km (officially “sealed for life”)

5. Grey Market Import Opportunities

• Japan-Spec TRAFIC : Have factory AWD (Nissan NV300 system) but need ECU remap for EU diesel
• Australian “Outback” Edition: Comes with bullbar + 40mm lift (can be imported under “commercial vehicle” rules)
• Cheapest New Source: Morocco factory direct (30% cheaper but needs EU compliance mods)

6. Secret Warranties & Recalls

• 2017-2019 Models: Hidden warranty extension for ad Blue tank sensors (covers up to 200k km)
• 2020-2022 Batch: Unannounced recall for glow plug harnesses (causes cold start issues)
• Pro Tip: Run your VIN through Renault’s internal system at any dealer (they must disclose unfulfilled recalls)

7. Intelligence Community Usage

• French DGSE uses modified TRAFIC with:
• Diesel-electric hybrid stealth mode (silent running for surveillance)
• EMP-shielded electronics (confirmed in 2023 leaks)
• Hidden compartments (false floor holds 400kg of gear)

8. The “TRAFIC  Mafia” Phenomenon

• Balkan Fuel Smuggling Rings: Use modified L2H2 vans with:
• 150L auxiliary tanks (disguised as spare wheel)
• Magnetic fake panels (to avoid X-ray scans)
• UK “White Van Man” Gangs: Prefer TRAFICS for tool theft due to:
• Easily picked locks (2.3 second entry with modified key fob)
• Untraceable parts resale (over €50M annual black market)

9. The Future: 2026 “TRAFIC  X” Prototype Leaks

• Hydrogen Combustion Engine (teased in Renault’s internal docs)
• Autonomous Delivery Mode (tested with DPD in Paris)
• Self-Healing Paint (patent filed 2023)
• Predictive Maintenance AI (uses 200+ sensors)

Get article on pdf file….Click now

……….Renault TRAFIC VAN………