2012 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · HN12 AAU

The Relay’s most recent MOT test on 2022-04-29—conducted at exactly 184,426 miles—shows a concerning anomaly rather than a clear maintenance trend. The vehicle passed the test but was simultaneously recorded as failed, a duplicate entry that suggests either an administrative error or a deliberate attempt to bypass proper inspection. No defects were logged in either record, which implies the tester may not have identified any major failings at that point. However, the lack of subsequent tests means the vehicle has not been re-inspected since, leaving a critical 4-year gap (as of July 2026) where its condition could have deteriorated significantly. This absence of recent MOT history raises immediate red flags about the owner’s commitment to compliance and potential neglect of underlying issues. The recorded mileage of 184,426 miles over 14 years—approximately 13,173 miles annually—is unusually high for a vehicle of this age, suggesting either aggressive use or prolonged periods of inactivity followed by rapid accumulation. The identical mileage at the 2022 test further implies the odometer has not been tampered with, but the wear on components like brakes, suspension, and drivetrain would be well beyond typical expectations for a car of this vintage. Without intermediate MOTs or service records, there is no way to verify whether critical components such as coil springs, suspension bushes, or brake calipers have been replaced or if corrosion has progressed in critical areas like the subframe or wheel arches. Given the lack of recent testing and the vehicle’s advanced age, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear coil springs and bushes, which are prone to fatigue at this mileage. The brakes—especially the rear calipers—should be checked for binding or excessive wear, as high mileage often correlates with glazed or unevenly worn discs. Structural integrity is another critical concern; the chassis and wheel arches should be examined for corrosion, particularly around the wheel bearings and sills, where rust can compromise safety. The absence of advisories in the MOT history does not guarantee these issues are absent, as testers may overlook subtle signs of deterioration. Tyres, while not recorded as failed, should be scrutinised for uneven wear or low tread depth, as the vehicle’s mileage suggests they may have been neglected.