2015 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · AP65 DHM

The most recent MOT test on the 2015 Citroën C-Connect Relay occurred on 2026-05-14, where it passed with a single advisory regarding the offside front outer track rod end ball joint exhibiting slight play. While this does not constitute a failure, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a concerning pattern of recurring issues, particularly with the front track rod end ball joints and rear tyres. The 2026 test’s advisory for excessive play in the same component follows a previous major failure in 2026-05-13, where the ball joint’s dust cover was severely deteriorated, allowing dirt ingress—a critical failure that compromises steering and suspension integrity. This suggests either a persistent mechanical issue or a lack of timely maintenance, warranting careful attention to the suspension system’s long-term reliability. The earlier failed MOT in 2023 also highlighted worn brake pads and tyre sidewall damage, reinforcing the need for proactive servicing to prevent escalation into more costly repairs. The recorded mileage of 69,330 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,303 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the absence of significantly higher mileage figures over the past few years—particularly in the last three years—could indicate periods of prolonged inactivity, which may have contributed to minor but persistent issues such as tyre perishing, brake pad wear, and suspension component degradation. Prolonged standing can exacerbate problems like corrosion on brake discs, caliper binding, or fluid degradation in hydraulic systems, all of which were noted in previous MOTs. Conversely, if the vehicle has been driven consistently, the wear progression on consumables like brake pads and tyres would be more pronounced, but the recorded advisories suggest a mix of both scenarios. Given the vehicle’s MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension system, focusing on the track rod ends, ball joints, and associated bushings. The slight play in the offside front outer track rod end ball joint from the 2026 MOT indicates potential long-term wear, and any clunking or rattling noises during cornering or over bumps should be investigated further. The previous major failure of the ball joint’s dust cover highlights the importance of checking for signs of excessive play, which could lead to steering instability or suspension failure. On a test drive, listen for uneven suspension noise, particularly from the front, and inspect for any signs of misalignment or excessive wear in the steering components. Additionally, the tyre history is a critical concern, with multiple advisories over the years indicating significant sidewall damage and tread degradation. The 2026 MOT noted exposed ply or structural separation on the offside rear tyre, which is a dangerous failure and must be addressed immediately. The buyer should replace all tyres with new or high-quality used tyres that meet the legal minimum tread depth and have sufficient sidewall integrity. Tyre perishing, particularly on the rear tyres, is a common issue in older vehicles left standing, and any cracks or splits should be repaired or replaced. Furthermore, the brake system should be inspected for disc corrosion, caliper binding, or uneven wear, as previous MOTs noted thin brake pads and potential standing corrosion. Check for a firm, even brake pedal travel and listen for any grinding or squeaking noises during braking. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and the advisories of thin brake pads, it is advisable to have the brake system professionally serviced, including pad replacement and disc inspection, to ensure safe stopping performance.