2012 Citroen Nemo 1.2L Diesel · AF62 MHV

The most recent DVSA MOT test for this 2012 Citroen Nemo, conducted on 9 December 2022, resulted in a pass with no defects recorded, indicating that the vehicle met the minimum statutory roadworthiness requirements at the time of inspection. However, the history reveals a mixed and somewhat concerning maintenance trend. While the 2021 and 2022 tests passed without advisories, the 2022 test followed immediately after a failure on the same date due to a fractured nearside front coil spring, which is a significant structural and safety-related suspension component. Earlier records from 2019 and 2020 show clusters of defects ranging from shock absorber fluid leaks, excessively worn strut top mount bushes, headlamp aim and bulb failures, and thinning front brake pads. The overall pattern suggests the vehicle has not been consistently well-maintained and has experienced repeated suspension and lighting issues that a prospective buyer should investigate thoroughly. With a recorded mileage of 100,085 miles over approximately 14 years, the Nemo is averaging around 7,149 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a small commercial-derived van of this age, though the mileage pattern warrants scrutiny. There is a notable gap in MOT history between April 2019 and November 2020, and the cumulative mileage progression between recorded tests appears consistent with moderate usage rather than long periods of standing. That said, vehicles of this age and mileage commonly experience accelerated wear on suspension components, clutch assemblies, and braking systems. The historical advisories relating to shock absorbers, strut top mounts, coil springs, and brake pads collectively support the expectation that further suspension and brake refurbishment is likely to be required in the near term. Given the recurring suspension-related defects and advisories, a prospective buyer should conduct a careful physical and dynamic evaluation. On a test drive, listen for any clonking, knocking, or squeaking noises from the front suspension, particularly over speed bumps, uneven road surfaces, and during full steering lock manoeuvres, as these are classic symptoms of worn top mount bearings, fractured coil springs, or failing Macpherson strut components. Visually inspect the front coil springs for any signs of corrosion, cracking, or sagging, and check the shock absorbers for fluid seepage around the upper and lower mountings. Examine the front brake discs for lipping, scoring, or corrosion, and verify that the brake pads have sufficient friction material remaining, given the 2020 advisory for thinning pads. Additionally, check that the front headlights are properly aligned and that all bulbs, including the registration plate lamp, are functioning correctly. Beyond the specific historical defects, a 14-year-old commercial vehicle with this mileage warrants a broad age-related inspection. Examine the tyres carefully for sidewall cracking, perishing, and uneven wear patterns, particularly on the offside front where previous edge wear was noted, as older rubber compounds degrade regardless of tread depth. Check the clutch pedal area, as a missing rubber was previously noted, and assess the clutch itself for slip, judder, or a high biting point, given the typical wear of this component in a small van used for urban duties. Inspect the underside for corrosion, paying close attention to suspension arms, subframes, and brake lines, which are prone to surface oxidation on older vehicles. Verify the service history, including the condition of the timing belt or chain depending on the engine variant, and confirm that age-sensitive consumables such as the 12-volt battery, coolant, brake fluid, and engine oil have been refreshed in line with manufacturer schedules.