2015 Citroen Nemo 1.2L Diesel · PL15 AAV

The most recent DVSA examination on 21 July 2026 resulted in a pass, though the tester recorded an advisory noting an oil leak from the engine that was not considered excessive at that time. Looking at the broader history, the maintenance trend is clearly concerning and shows a pattern of deterioration rather than stable upkeep. The vehicle passed cleanly in early 2024, but then suffered two consecutive failures in February and March 2025 relating to excessive exhaust emissions, a failed rear fog lamp, a split inner constant velocity boot on the nearside front driveshaft, and a significant oil leak from the engine. The advisories issued at the 2025 test for play in both front anti-roll bar linkage ball joints further suggest that the front suspension is beginning to wear. Although the car returned to the road in July 2026 with only an oil leak advisory, the underlying issues identified in early 2025 appear to have been addressed only enough to secure a pass, and a prospective buyer should be alert to the possibility of recurrent faults in these specific areas. The cumulative record points to a vehicle that has demanded remedial attention across emissions, drivetrain sealing, and front suspension components within a short window. With approximately 102,387 miles recorded over eleven years, this Citroen Nemo is averaging roughly 9,300 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a light commercial-derived van of this age. There are no extended gaps in the MOT timeline visible, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use rather than left standing for prolonged periods, which reduces the likelihood of severe standing corrosion or seized calipers but means that consumable wear should be proportionate to the mileage covered. At this odometer reading, attention should naturally turn to clutch wear, dual mass flywheel condition if applicable, timing belt or chain service intervals depending on whether the engine is belt or chain driven, and general drivetrain refinement. The relatively high mileage combined with a known history of emissions non-compliance and oil leaks indicates that engine internal wear is a plausible concern. The recurring oil leak from the engine, first noted as excessive during the March 2025 failure and still present as an advisory in July 2026, warrants close inspection during any viewing. Oil staining on the lower engine block, sump, and surrounding components should be checked, and the underside of the vehicle beneath the engine bay examined for fresh drips or accumulated residue. On a test drive, listen for any ticking or tapping from the top end which could indicate low oil due to leakage, and monitor the oil level warning light or check the dipstick directly if possible. The exhaust emissions failures on both February and March 2025 are notable given the diesel metered smoke limits, and although it subsequently passed, this suggests the engine may have been producing visible smoke under load during acceleration, which a buyer should attempt to replicate by conducting a cold-start observation and a hard acceleration test. Any blue tinge to the exhaust smoke would point to oil combustion, while black smoke could indicate fuelling or turbocharger concerns if applicable. The front suspension and drivetrain advisories and failures should also inform a thorough physical inspection. The anti-roll bar linkage ball joints showing slight play at both sides indicate worn drop links or anti-roll bar bushes, which typically produce a clonking or rattling noise over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, and during direction changes at low speed. The nearside front inner constant velocity boot that was severely deteriorated in 2024 and then recorded as split with ingress of dirt during the February 2025 failure is a significant concern, as contaminated CV joints can lead to vibration, knocking on full lock, and ultimately joint failure requiring driveshaft replacement. Inspect both front inner and outer CV gaiters for splits, grease loss, or perished rubber. Additionally, given the age of the vehicle, the buyer should verify the condition of the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing even if tread depth is adequate, check the 12V battery for holding charge and clean terminals, examine the brake discs for lipping and corrosion especially given any periods of light use, and confirm that brake fluid, coolant, and timing components have been serviced in line with manufacturer schedules. A compression test or diagnostic scan would be prudent given the emissions and oil leak history, and a thorough inspection on a ramp would be highly advisable before purchase.