2009 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · CE09 MVG

The most recent MOT test on 2026-04-16 resulted in a clean pass, though it included two advisories related to the near- and offside headlamps, each showing a minor obstruction on the lens that does not significantly impair light output. This follows a pattern of passing tests with recurring advisories on headlamp lenses and minor issues such as water ingress in the near-side headlamp lens, which was noted in 2024. The vehicle previously failed in 2023 due to a major parking brake inefficiency, a severely obstructed near-side front headlamp, incorrect direction indicators, a non-functional windscreen wiper, and a major exhaust leak. While the 2023 failure was the sole major failure in the history, the presence of persistent advisories—particularly on brakes and tyres—suggests a maintenance trend that has not been fully resolved. The vehicle’s overall roadworthiness is currently stable, but the history indicates underlying wear and potential service needs that require attention to prevent escalation. The recorded mileage of 116,949 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents an annual usage rate of around 6,879 miles, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and usage profile. Such mileage accumulation is typical for a vehicle that has been driven regularly but not excessively, avoiding the extremes of either light, infrequent use or high-performance, high-mileage exploitation. However, the absence of recent service records or mileage gaps suggests that the vehicle has been maintained under moderate, consistent driving conditions. This profile does not inherently indicate poor wear, but it does mean that certain components, particularly those subject to gradual degradation like brakes and tyres, may have reached or neared their operational limits without timely servicing. The suspension and drivetrain, while not directly flagged in the MOT history, are likely to exhibit signs of wear commensurate with the vehicle’s age and usage, warranting a thorough inspection for hidden issues. Given the MOT history, the prospective buyer should prioritise a detailed mechanical inspection to address the recurring advisories and potential underlying failures. The front brake discs show signs of wear and pitting, which could indicate prolonged high-load braking or insufficient resurfacing. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a spongy or pulsating feel, or signs of overheating such as smoke or a burning smell. Inspect the brake discs for excessive glazing or warping, and check for binding calipers that may require adjustment or replacement. The tyres, particularly the near-side rear and offside rear, have been noted for slight damage or perishing, which could suggest exposure to road debris, poor storage conditions, or simply the effects of age. Test for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment, suspension issues, or incorrect tyre pressures. The exhaust system’s corrosion and leak are critical concerns; visually inspect the exhaust for rust holes, particularly around the central rear section, and listen for a metallic hissing sound or reduced exhaust note, which may indicate a leak. For the buyer’s immediate inspection, focus on the following areas: verify the parking brake mechanism for proper engagement and absence of excessive drag or binding, which could have been the cause of the 2023 failure. Check the headlamps for proper alignment and functionality, ensuring that the near-side front headlamp obstruction is not causing a visual or performance issue. Inspect the windscreen wiper and its mechanism for proper operation, as the 2023 failure highlighted a non-functional wiper, which is a safety-critical failure. The battery should be tested for charge capacity and corrosion, especially given the vehicle’s age and the potential for standing corrosion if not used regularly. Examine the tyres for sidewall perishing, which can be a silent but dangerous failure risk, and ensure that the tread depth meets legal requirements. Finally, consider a fluid check for brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage, particularly in a vehicle that has been driven under moderate conditions. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, check for standing corrosion on the undercarriage, particularly around the exhaust and wheel arches, and ensure that all fluids are topped up to prevent further degradation.