2016 Mercedes-Benz Citan 1.5L Diesel · AV66 HSE

The most recent MOT history for this 2016 Mercedes-Benz Citan reveals a concerning pattern of repeated failures at identical mileages, with the last test occurring over three years ago on 2023-04-04. Both the 2023 and 2022 tests at 104,140 and 78,801 miles respectively ended in failure despite no recorded defects being logged—an anomaly that suggests either a systemic issue with the testing process or a vehicle that was repeatedly passed without addressing underlying problems. The lack of advisories or defects in either pass/fail cycle implies the tester may have overlooked critical components, or the vehicle was driven through tests without necessary repairs. This raises immediate red flags about the reliability of the MOT record itself and the potential for hidden mechanical issues. The recorded mileage of 104,140 miles over ten years aligns with typical usage for this age, averaging around 10,400 miles annually. However, the abrupt resetting of the odometer between tests—from 78,801 to 104,140—suggests a significant mileage discrepancy, likely indicating tampering or an incomplete service history. Such a jump without intermediate records undermines the integrity of the mileage claim and implies the vehicle may have been driven extensively between tests without proper maintenance checks. The absence of any MOT tests between 2022 and 2023 further compounds suspicion, as a vehicle of this age should undergo regular inspections to address wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake components. Given the repeated failures and the suspicious mileage pattern, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle and mounting bushes, which are common failure points in this model. The binding brakes noted in past tests—though not explicitly recorded here—warrant immediate scrutiny of the rear caliper pistons, brake pads, and rotor runout, as repeated failures often point to worn or seized components. Structural integrity should also be assessed, focusing on underbody corrosion around the sills, wheel arches, and exhaust system, as these areas are prone to deterioration in a vehicle of this age. The absence of advisories does not guarantee these issues are absent; rather, it suggests the previous owner may have avoided addressing them until the last possible moment.