2018 Citroen Berlingo 1.6L Diesel · FR54 AJS

The most recent MOT test on the 2018 Citroën Berlingo was conducted on 2026-06-25 and resulted in a clean pass, indicating no defects were found at that time. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues that warrant cautious consideration. The most notable failures occurred in 2023 and 2025, with the 2025 test highlighting a major defect related to the offside front drive shaft constant velocity (CV) joint boot, which was either split or insecure, allowing dirt ingress and compromising the boot’s integrity. Additionally, the 2023 MOT recorded a horn failure, which, while not directly related to mechanical wear, underscores a potential electrical or wiring issue that could affect the vehicle’s compliance with safety standards if not addressed. These failures suggest that while the vehicle has passed subsequent tests, underlying wear or damage to components like the CV joint and horn mechanism may have been present or developing over time. The fact that the latest MOT passed without defects does not eliminate the risk of these issues resurfacing or progressing further, particularly given the vehicle’s age and the potential for cumulative stress on these components. The recorded mileage of 31,615 miles for a vehicle aged eight years is unusually low for its age, averaging approximately 3,952 miles per year. This low usage rate could imply that the vehicle has spent significant periods in a stationary state, which is particularly concerning for components prone to corrosion, fluid degradation, and mechanical binding. For example, brakes and suspension elements—such as calipers, discs, and bushes—can suffer from standing corrosion, leading to binding or reduced effectiveness, especially if the vehicle has been left exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures. Similarly, the CV joint boot failure in 2025 suggests that prolonged inactivity may have exacerbated wear or allowed contaminants to enter the joint, accelerating its failure. While low mileage can sometimes indicate better maintenance, it also raises questions about whether the vehicle has been subjected to regular use or if it has been maintained under less-than-optimal conditions, potentially masking underlying issues until they become critical. Given the recurring MOT failures and the vehicle’s low mileage profile, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough mechanical inspection before purchase. Focus on the front drive shaft area, particularly the CV joint and boot, as the 2025 failure indicates a history of boot degradation or damage. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as clunking or grinding from the front wheels, which could signal misalignment, binding calipers, or worn suspension bushes. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may point to misalignment or suspension issues, and inspect the CV joint for excessive play or leaks around the boot. The horn should be tested to ensure it functions correctly, as a non-operational horn is a safety hazard and could have been the cause of the 2023 MOT failure. Beyond mechanical checks, examine the vehicle for signs of standing corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, undercarriage, and brake components, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate rust formation. Also, verify the condition of the 12V battery, as low usage may have led to diminished capacity or internal corrosion, which could result in starting difficulties or electrical gremlins. Lastly, ensure that all fluids—brake, coolant, and transmission—are topped up and free from contamination, as standing fluids can degrade over time, compromising system performance. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the buyer should also prioritise a visual inspection of the tyre condition, paying close attention to sidewall perishing or cracking, which can indicate age-related degradation and compromise tyre safety. Tyres should be checked for adequate tread depth and signs of uneven wear, which may reveal underlying suspension or alignment issues. The brakes should be inspected for signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, which can occur when the vehicle stands for extended periods without use. If the vehicle has been in storage, the buyer should also check for any fluid leaks, particularly around the engine bay, under the bonnet, and under the vehicle, as standing fluids can lead to component failure or corrosion. Finally, if the MOT history is clean and the vehicle has been maintained with regular service intervals, the buyer should request service records to confirm that time-based maintenance, such as oil changes and fluid top-ups, has been conducted according to manufacturer recommendations. Given the history of CV joint and horn issues, it is prudent to arrange a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic to assess the condition of these components and ensure there are no hidden problems that could lead to costly repairs in the near future.