2007 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · CE57 VFP

The most recent MOT test on the 2007 Citroën Relay was conducted on 2026-09-01, though the provided records only extend to 2022. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring advisories and minor failures, particularly in suspension components, brake systems, and lighting, with two previous failures in 2021 and 2020. While the majority of tests since 2022 have passed, the consistent presence of wear-related advisories—such as worn suspension bushes, pitted brake discs, and tyre edge wear—suggests that the vehicle has not been fully maintained to industry standards. The failure to address these issues promptly may indicate either neglect or a lack of awareness of their severity, particularly given the critical nature of brake pad thickness and exhaust mounting defects in 2021. This trend, combined with the vehicle’s age, underscores the need for diligent due diligence to prevent escalation into more costly repairs. The recorded mileage of 89,131 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 19 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 4,691 miles per year. Such low mileage is atypical for a car of this age and typically suggests prolonged periods of inactivity, either through storage or infrequent use. While lower mileage can reduce wear on consumables like oil, brake pads, and tyres, it also raises concerns about standing corrosion, particularly in areas prone to moisture exposure such as the undercarriage, exhaust system, and electrical components. The absence of recent high-mileage activity means that wear patterns from heavy use—such as uneven tyre wear, excessive suspension movement, or accelerated brake system degradation—are less likely to be present. However, the vehicle’s history of MOT failures highlights that even low-mileage cars can suffer from neglect, especially if they have been stored in damp conditions or without regular servicing. A prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the Citroën Relay, focusing on the areas identified in the MOT history and common issues associated with its age and mileage profile. First and foremost, examine the suspension system for signs of excessive wear or binding, particularly in the front lower suspension arms. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps, as this may indicate worn or broken suspension bushes or broken coil spring mounts. The brake system should be inspected for uneven wear on discs and pads, potential binding calipers, or corrosion on the brake lines and master cylinder. Check for fluid leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the exhaust manifold and mounting points, as the 2021 failure on exhaust mounting defects suggests past or ongoing issues. Additionally, verify the condition of the tyres beyond the MOT limits—look for sidewall cracking, perishing, or uneven tread wear, which could indicate underlying suspension or alignment problems. The vehicle’s lighting system should be tested for proper function and alignment, as previous MOT failures in this area indicate potential issues with headlamp aim and position lamps. Pay particular attention to the brake lights, as the 2021 failure on brake pad thickness is a critical safety concern that must be addressed immediately. Given the low annual mileage, the battery and electrical system should be checked for signs of age-related degradation, such as corrosion on terminals or a decline in performance when starting the engine. The interior should be inspected for signs of corrosion, particularly around the rear box and under the seats, where moisture can accumulate. Finally, the owner should confirm the vehicle’s service history, especially for fluid changes—oil, coolant, and brake fluid—since these degrade over time regardless of mileage. Given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is strongly recommended to identify any hidden issues that may not have been flagged in the MOT tests.