2012 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · SN62 AUO

The most recent MOT test on the 2012 Citroën Relay occurred on 2026-03-25 and resulted in a passing outcome, though this follows a pattern of significant failures and advisories in the preceding two years. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a concerning trend of structural and mechanical issues, particularly related to tyre integrity and brake performance, with two consecutive dangerous failures in 2025-2026 linked to tyre separation and structural corrosion. The 2024 test was clean, suggesting a brief period of stability, but the subsequent failures indicate either a failure to address prior issues or underlying wear that has progressed beyond the vehicle’s intended lifespan. The presence of multiple advisories—such as brake binding and structural corrosion—also suggests that the vehicle has been subjected to prolonged periods of disuse or misuse, exacerbating wear patterns. The recorded mileage of 32,618 miles for a vehicle aged 14 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of approximately 2,330 miles per year, which is far below the average for its age and condition. Such low mileage often correlates with extended periods of stationary use, particularly in climates prone to corrosion or where the vehicle is kept in garages or covered areas. However, this usage profile raises critical concerns about the vehicle’s exposure to environmental factors, including moisture, salt, and temperature fluctuations, which accelerate corrosion and tyre degradation. Without corroborating evidence of controlled storage conditions, the lack of higher mileage may indicate neglect rather than genuine low usage, potentially masking deeper mechanical issues that have only surfaced due to inactivity. The combination of low mileage and the severity of recent MOT failures suggests that the vehicle’s wear patterns are influenced more by standing conditions than by actual driving wear. Given the tyre failures recorded in the 2025-2026 MOTs—all classified as dangerous due to structural separation and perishing—buyers should immediately inspect the tyres for any visible bulges, cracks, or signs of tread separation. These defects are critical because they indicate the tyre’s internal structure has failed, leading to catastrophic blowouts or loss of control. On a test drive, watch for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment, suspension issues, or poor alignment history. If the tyres have been in place for more than six years, they should be replaced immediately, regardless of remaining tread depth, as the risk of failure outweighs any remaining legal tread requirements. Additionally, verify the brake system for signs of excessive heat damage, warping, or binding, as the 2025 MOT advisories suggest the near-side front brakes may be affected. Listen for grinding noises during braking, which could indicate worn brake pads or metal-on-metal contact, and check for uneven brake pad wear or pulsations that may signal warped discs. The advisories regarding structural corrosion—particularly around the coolant and power steering reservoirs—highlight a need for thorough inspection of the vehicle’s undercarriage and body panels. Corrosion in these areas can compromise the vehicle’s integrity over time, even if rigidity is not immediately compromised. Buyers should visually inspect the body for signs of rust, particularly around wheel arches, door sills, and the rocker panels, as these are common corrosion hotspots. If the vehicle has been stored outdoors or in a damp environment, the corrosion may be more extensive than suggested by the MOT’s advisory. Given the low mileage, check the 12V battery for signs of age-related failure, such as corrosion on terminals or a decline in cold-cranking amps, as batteries degrade over time regardless of usage. Finally, since the vehicle’s last MOT was clean in 2024, consider scheduling a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to verify the absence of hidden issues, such as fluid leaks, suspension wear, or drivetrain anomalies. Time-based servicing of fluids—particularly brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid—should also be addressed, as these degrade over time even with low mileage.