2011 Citroen Berlingo 1.6L Diesel · CK61 HHM

The most recent MOT inspection on 28 July 2026 resulted in a pass, though the vehicle failed earlier that same day due to headlamp aim and engine malfunction indicator lamp issues. While the vehicle is currently compliant, the maintenance trend suggests a period of instability regarding electrical and lighting components. The recurring failure of the engine malfunction indicator lamp, also known as the MIL or check engine light, across both 2025 and 2026 tests is a significant point of concern. This indicates a potential intermittent fault within the engine management system or a failure in the bulb/indicator itself, which must be verified to ensure it is not masking genuine engine management issues or sensor failures. With 115,888 miles recorded over approximately 15 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 7,726 miles per year. This represents a relatively low and consistent usage pattern for a commercial-style vehicle like a Citroen Berlingo. While lower annual mileage generally implies less wear on the drivetrain and engine internals, it can also lead to other age-related issues such as fluid degradation or components seizing from infrequent use. The mileage is well within the expected range for a vehicle of this age, suggesting it has not been subjected to heavy commercial abuse, but the mechanical components will still be subject to the natural perishing of rubber and plastic elements due to time rather than just distance. A critical area for immediate inspection is the offside front suspension arm pin or bush, which was noted as worn in the most recent advisory. This is a progressive defect that will eventually lead to excessive movement within the suspension assembly. During your test drive, listen closely for any knocking, clunking, or dull thudding sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps. You should also monitor the steering for any unexpected pulling to one side or a vague, wandering sensation, which often accompanies worn suspension bushes. Furthermore, the history of tyre wear advisories in 2024 suggests that the vehicle may suffer from alignment issues, possibly linked to the aforementioned suspension wear, so check the current tread depth and look for uneven wear patterns on the inner or outer edges of all four tyres. Given the history of electrical failures, such as the nearside registration plate lamp and headlamp issues, you should perform a thorough lighting check before departing. Ensure all dipped beams, main beams, indicators, and brake lights are functioning correctly. Because the engine MIL has appeared as a failure point twice in two years, I strongly recommend requesting a diagnostic scan to check for any stored fault codes that may not have triggered a light during the test. Finally, check the condition of the rubber components under the bonnet and around the wheel arches for signs of perishing or cracking, as the low annual mileage may mean the vehicle has spent significant time stationary, which can lead to dry rot in hoses and seals.