2016 Citroen Berlingo 1.6L Diesel · CE66 VOM

The most recent MOT, carried out on 5 November 2025, was passed but returned two advisories – a persistent oil leak and a minor exhaust leak at the flexible joint. Compared with earlier tests, the record shows a gradual increase in advisory items: the 2024 test added tyre‑wear warnings on all four wheels, the 2021 test flagged low rear brake pads, and the 2025 and 2024 tests both note the oil leak. While no outright failures have been recorded, the trend is moving from a clean slate to recurring minor defects, suggesting that maintenance may be becoming less proactive. At ten years old the van has accumulated 120,890 miles, averaging roughly 12,000 miles per year. This usage is modestly above the typical 8‑10 k mi/yr seen on many light commercial vehicles, indicating a reasonable but not excessive workload. The steady mileage progression suggests the vehicle has been driven regularly rather than sitting idle for long periods, which generally helps keep seals and rubber components supple. However, the higher annual distance does accelerate wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads, suspension bushings and engine oil seals, and it increases the likelihood of internal component fatigue. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the oil leak noted in the last two MOTs. Inspect the engine bay for fresh oil stains around the valve cover, oil filter housing, and the oil pan gasket; a persistent leak can lead to low oil levels, increased engine wear and, in extreme cases, overheating. The exhaust flexi‑joint leak should be examined for cracks or corrosion; a faulty joint can produce a ticking or rattling noise, reduce exhaust efficiency and, more seriously, allow exhaust gases to enter the cabin, which may be noticeable as a faint smell of fumes or a slight increase in cabin temperature. Tyre wear on the edges of all four wheels points to possible mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes, or uneven tyre pressures – a thorough visual check for uneven tread depth, sidewall cracking and a professional wheel‑alignment test are advisable. The advisory about low rear brake pads from 2021 indicates that the pads are likely near the end of their service life; the buyer should verify pad thickness, inspect the brake discs for scoring or rust, and be prepared for a brake‑pad replacement in the near term. Beyond the specific advisories, a comprehensive inspection should cover age‑related items. Check the condition of the tyre sidewalls for cracking or perishing, especially given the vehicle’s ten‑year age, and confirm that the tyre pressures are correct. Examine the suspension components – especially the front and rear bushes and coil springs – for any signs of leakage, corrosion or excessive play, which could cause the clunking noises often heard over bumps. Verify the health of the 12 V battery, looking for swollen cases or corrosion on terminals, and consider a load test as batteries over ten years can lose capacity. Finally, confirm that the service book shows regular oil and filter changes, coolant flushes and timing‑belt or chain maintenance in line with Citroën’s schedule; time‑based fluid degradation can lead to reduced cooling efficiency and premature wear of internal engine parts. A test drive that includes listening for unusual noises on acceleration, braking and cornering, and feeling for any vibration or pull, will help confirm that the vehicle remains mechanically sound despite the minor advisories.