2015 Citroen Nemo 1.2L Diesel · BL06 RAD

The most recent MOT inspection on 24 July 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance trend shows signs of recent instability and a reactive approach to repairs. The vehicle failed significantly just prior to passing, with major defects involving the offside outer drive shaft CV boot and excessive play in the offside track rod end, alongside a dangerous failure for insufficient tyre tread depth. While the current pass suggests these specific items have been rectified, the history of recurring issues indicates that components are being replaced only when they reach a point of failure rather than through proactive servicing. With 147,793 miles recorded over approximately eleven years, this Citroen Nemo has averaged roughly 13,436 miles per year. This is a relatively high mileage profile for a small commercial vehicle of this age, suggesting consistent, heavy usage. Such high mileage places significant cumulative stress on the drivetrain, suspension, and braking systems. You should expect a higher degree of wear on consumables and a greater likelihood of component fatigue, particularly regarding rubber bushes, seals, and bearing assemblies, which are prone to degradation under these operating conditions. The MOT history reveals several persistent concerns that require close scrutiny during a physical inspection and test drive. There has been a recurring advisory for an oil leak since at least 2023, which, while described as not excessive, suggests a long-term seepage that could lead to larger engine or gearbox issues if left unaddressed. Furthermore, the history of shock absorber issues, including worn bushes and reduced damping, suggests the suspension system is nearing the end of its service life. During your test drive, listen for any clunking or knocking sounds from the underside, especially when navigating uneven surfaces or speed bumps, and check for any excessive bouncing or instability that would indicate worn dampers. You must also pay close attention to the steering and tyre condition. The recent failure of the track rod end and the CV boot indicates that the steering geometry and drive axles have been subject to significant wear. On the test drive, ensure the steering feels precise and centered, with no pulling to one side or vibrations through the steering wheel at speed. Given the history of tyre advisories and the recent dangerous failure, inspect the current tyres thoroughly for uneven wear patterns, which could indicate misaligned geometry, and check the sidewalls for any signs of perishing or cracking. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that oil changes and fluid replacements have been carried out regularly to mitigate the risks posed by the documented oil leaks and high mileage.