2014 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · BD64 VJC

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2026-01-30, just six months ago at 54,583 miles, confirms it remains roadworthy with no defects recorded. However, the immediate prior test on 2026-01-23—just seven days earlier at 54,479 miles—resulted in a failure, though no specific faults were logged. This anomaly suggests either a minor administrative oversight or a last-minute correction, but the absence of repeated issues in the preceding tests indicates no consistent mechanical decline. The last substantive failure-free pass occurred in January 2025 at 45,935 miles, followed by two more clean tests in January 2024 and December 2022, all without advisories or defects. While the trend appears stable, the abrupt failure followed by immediate re-testing warrants scrutiny of whether the vehicle was driven between tests or if the failure was procedural rather than technical. The recorded mileage of 54,583 miles over approximately 12 years—roughly 4,549 miles annually—is notably low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting either infrequent use or prolonged periods off the road. The gap between the 2022 test at 25,547 miles and the 2024 test at 35,762 miles represents nearly 10,000 miles in just under two years, a significant jump compared to the preceding intervals. This pattern implies the vehicle was either stored for extended periods or driven sporadically, which could accelerate wear on fluids, seals, and suspension components if not maintained regularly. The lack of advisories in any test suggests no urgent concerns were flagged, but the irregular mileage accumulation raises questions about whether critical services—such as brake fluid changes, differential maintenance, or suspension lubrication—were performed on schedule. Given the clean MOT history, the primary focus for an in-person inspection should centre on components prone to neglect in low-mileage vehicles. The suspension system, particularly the coil springs, bushes, and shock absorbers, should be examined for dryness, cracking, or excessive play, as prolonged standing can cause rubber components to degrade even without high mileage. Brake discs and calipers must be checked for uneven wear or binding, especially if the vehicle was driven sporadically, as moisture and corrosion can accelerate brake system deterioration. Structural integrity, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, should be inspected for corrosion or rust pitting, which can compromise safety even in lightly used cars. Finally, the exhaust system should be assessed for leaks or excessive rust, as standing vehicles are more susceptible to condensation-related corrosion in the underbody. While the MOT record offers no red flags, these areas demand thorough examination to confirm they have been properly maintained despite the vehicle’s irregular usage pattern.