2006 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · AV56 RMU

A pattern of recurring corrosion and suspension wear defines the mechanical story of this 2006 Citroën Relay, and the latest MOT on 26 March 2025 confirms that the condition is still deteriorating. The test recorded a dangerous failure of the rear stop lamp, major failures of both front headlamps due to severe lens contamination, and a major brake‑disc wear warning on the nearside front, while an advisory flagged a near‑side front upper oil leak. Earlier years show a similar trajectory: repeated advisories for outer sill corrosion, lower suspension‑arm bush wear and, from 2023 onward, progressive brake‑disc and track‑rod end‑play failures, culminating in a 2023 dangerous failure of the exhaust silencer rubbers and major corrosion of the inner suspension mounting points. At 137 952 mi the vehicle averages roughly 6 900 mi per year, a mileage rate that sits within normal bounds for a light‑commercial van of this age. The MOT history is continuous, with no multi‑year gaps, indicating the vehicle has been regularly tested and any failures have been recorded promptly. The mileage does not suggest extreme high‑use abuse, but the cumulative distance combined with the age means consumables such as bushings, brake discs and suspension components are likely approaching the end of their service lives and will require close inspection or replacement. When evaluating the suspension, pay particular attention to the lower arm bushes on both sides; the MOT notes persistent wear that has not yet produced excessive movement, yet any clunk or knock over bumps could indicate that the bushes have progressed to a critical stage. The outer sill corrosion recorded in 2024 and 2023, although deemed not yet structurally compromising, should be inspected for any signs of spreading rust, especially around the rear inner suspension mounting areas where the MOT flagged significant corrosion. A visual inspection for flaking paint, bubbling metal and any fresh rust streaks will help gauge whether the corrosion remains superficial or has begun to affect rigidity. The braking system demands immediate scrutiny: major warnings for nearside and off‑side front inner discs in 2024, combined with a prior advisory for rear inner brake rubbing, suggest the discs may be close to the minimum thickness and could be contributing to uneven braking feel. Listen for squeal or grinding, feel for pedal pulsation, and verify that the off‑side front service brake is not binding. The 2023 advisory about a front track‑rod end with excessive play should be checked for steering wander or a loose feel at low speeds. Finally, confirm that all rear and front stop lamps operate correctly, replace the compromised headlamp lenses, and verify that the exhaust silencer remains securely mounted, as the 2023 dangerous failure indicated split rubbers that could lead to rattles or loss of support. Addressing the near‑side front oil leak and the deteriorated CV boot noted in 2022 will also prevent future fluid loss and potential driveline damage.