2017 Citroen Relay 2.0L Diesel · BT67 EUN

A persistent shortfall in the parking‑brake performance is the most significant theme in this vehicle’s MOT history, with outright failures recorded on 7 May 2024 and again on 3 July 2026, each accompanied by multiple advisories noting reduced lever travel and uneven effort. Although the test on 6 July 2026 returned a pass, the recurrence of the same major defect within a short interval indicates that the underlying issue has not been fully resolved. In addition, the record shows recurring coolant‑system leakage, an oil‑leak advisory, and a series of brake‑wear advisories that have accumulated over the past three years. At 118 043 miles for a nine‑year‑old 2017 Citroën Relay, the vehicle averages roughly 13 000 miles per annum, a mileage level that is above the low‑usage benchmark for a light‑commercial van and suggests considerable wear on consumables such as brake components, suspension bushings and tyre tread. MOT entries are spaced at regular six‑monthly intervals, with no prolonged gaps, indicating that the vehicle has been kept on the road consistently rather than sitting idle for extended periods. The higher annual mileage therefore amplifies the relevance of the recorded brake‑disc wear, tyre cracking and suspension‑arm pin wear, as these parts typically experience accelerated degradation under sustained use. When inspecting the parking‑brake system, feel for a firm, consistent lever pull and verify that the vehicle can be held on a moderate incline without slippage; any excessive travel or a noticeable difference between the nearside and offside effort should be confirmed as a fault. Examine the coolant reservoir and radiator hoses for signs of external seepage, and monitor the temperature gauge during a short drive to detect any overheating that could stem from the reported leak. An oil‑leak advisory warrants a visual check around the engine block, valve cover and oil pan for fresh oil deposits, and a pressure test if the source is not immediately apparent. The suspension‑arm pin or bush wear noted in 2024 should be assessed by listening for clunking noises over bumps and by checking for uneven tyre wear that may indicate compromised geometry. Tyres described as slightly damaged or cracking should be inspected for sidewall integrity, and any tread depth approaching the legal limit must be replaced promptly. Finally, the thin‑pad warnings on both front brakes suggest that the pads are nearing the end of their service life; verify pedal firmness, listen for squeal, and measure pad thickness if possible. Given the pattern of recurring parking‑brake failures, coolant and oil leaks, and progressive wear on brake and suspension components, a prospective buyer should budget for remedial work on the parking‑brake mechanism, a thorough coolant‑system repair, replacement of worn brake pads and possibly discs, and renewal of any compromised tyres. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic, with particular focus on the brake‑actuation system, cooling circuit, suspension bushings and tyre condition, will provide a clear picture of the immediate maintenance required and help avoid unexpected downtime after purchase.