2016 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · AE66 ABK

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2016 Citroen Relay, conducted on 24 July 2025, resulted in a pass with no defects or advisories recorded, which represents the strongest possible outcome at the point of examination. Reviewing the broader history, the vehicle has demonstrated a stable and consistent maintenance pattern, having passed its MOTs in 2023, 2024, and 2025. The two recorded failures in 2023 and 2025 were followed immediately by passes just days later, suggesting these were likely minor retest scenarios rather than substantive mechanical failures, possibly related to tester-observed items corrected prior to the subsequent examination. The absence of recurring advisories relating to components such as suspension, braking, or corrosion indicates that the vehicle has not developed chronic wear issues within the scope of MOT inspection during this period. With a recorded mileage of 98,525 miles over approximately ten years, this Relay averages around 9,852 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a working commercial vehicle of this type and age. There are no significant mileage gaps recorded that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, nor is there any evidence of rapid accumulation that might indicate heavy commercial use beyond the norm. The consistent year-on-year pattern points to steady operational use, which is generally favourable for mechanical longevity as components such as the clutch, drivetrain, brakes, and suspension have remained regularly exercised. That said, at approaching the 100,000 mile threshold, it would be prudent to anticipate that major service items including timing belt replacement, clutch wear, and turbocharger condition (if applicable to the engine variant) will require close scrutiny regardless of the clean MOT record. Given the clean MOT history and the age and mileage profile of this vehicle, physical inspection should focus on age- and use-related deterioration rather than specific flagged defects. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing and cracking, as ten-year-old rubber compounds harden regardless of tread depth, and a commercial vehicle of this size demands correct load-rated tyres with even wear patterns indicative of proper tracking and suspension geometry. The braking system warrants a thorough check including disc condition for lipping or corrosion, particularly given any periods of wet weather use, and caliper operation to confirm there is no binding that would cause uneven pad wear or pulling under braking. A test drive should include firm brake applications from speed to detect any shudder, and low-speed manoeuvring should be conducted with windows down to listen for any suspension clonks, knocking, or knocking from worn bushes or dampers typical of high-mileage commercial vehicles. Further buyer due diligence should include verification of service history stamps to confirm regular oil and filter changes, along with evidence of timing belt and auxiliary belt replacement at manufacturer-specified intervals, which on a Relay of this age and mileage is critical. The 12V battery should be load-tested, as commercial vehicles often suffer from repeated short journeys that deplete battery capacity, and a failing battery can mask underlying alternator issues. Fluid condition is also time-dependent rather than purely mileage-dependent, so brake fluid should be checked for moisture content (typically requiring replacement every two years regardless of use), while coolant and gearbox or clutch hydraulic fluid should be inspected for correct level and condition. Finally, the underside of the vehicle should be examined on a ramp for any oil leaks from the engine or gearbox, condition of the exhaust system for corrosion or blowing joints, and integrity of the rear leaf spring shackles and bushes which are known wear items on this model. The sliding side door and rear barn doors should be operated to confirm smooth function, as these mechanisms often seize or develop alignment issues with prolonged commercial use.