2014 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · GD14 THF

The most recent MOT test on the Citroën C-Series Relay occurred on 2025-11-11, where it passed with a single advisory—an offside front steering rack inner joint play issue and nearside rear tyre showing signs of cracking or perishing. While this is a positive outcome, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring mechanical and functional concerns that demand careful consideration. Notably, the 2023-09-27 failure highlighted a major fluid leak in the offside front shock absorber, alongside light misting in the near-side unit, indicating a critical failure in suspension integrity. Earlier advisories on brake pad and disc wear, particularly on the rear axle, suggest ongoing friction system degradation, while the 2021-09-28 failure pointed to a poorly functioning parking brake, which could exacerbate brake system longevity. These recurring issues—particularly the suspension and braking advisories—suggest that the vehicle has not been fully maintained to industry standards, with some components reaching or nearing their functional limits. The 155,639 recorded miles for a 12-year-old C-Series Relay represents an exceptionally high annual usage rate of approximately 12,970 miles per year, which is far above the typical mileage accumulation for vehicles of this age. Such rapid mileage accumulation accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, and suspension components, as well as drivetrain elements such as the steering rack and exhaust system. The presence of multiple MOT advisories related to tyre wear—including instances of cracking, perishing, and edge wear—further supports the idea that the vehicle has been subjected to heavy or aggressive driving conditions. Additionally, the lack of significant mileage gaps between MOT tests (e.g., 2022-09-21 to 2023-09-27) implies sustained, active use rather than prolonged periods of inactivity, which could have mitigated some wear. Buyers should be aware that this mileage profile increases the likelihood of premature failure in high-wear areas, necessitating a thorough inspection of these systems. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a test drive and physical examination are the suspension, brakes, and steering systems. The offside front steering rack play and suspected inner joint issues from the latest MOT advisory warrant attention; listen for excessive play or clunking when steering, especially at low speeds, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns that could indicate misalignment or steering component failure. The rear brake system, with multiple advisories on pad and disc wear, should be scrutinised for uneven braking performance, a shudder or pulsation during braking, or visible signs of glazing or scoring on the discs. Inspect the rear brake calipers for binding or excessive heat discolouration, which may indicate hydraulic issues or mechanical seizure. Additionally, examine the suspension for signs of fluid leakage—look for oil stains around the shock absorbers and check for soft or sagging springs, which could indicate further internal failure. The tyre advisories suggest that the vehicle’s tyres have reached or neared their useful life, particularly on the near-side rear, where cracking or perishing is evident. Replace these tyres immediately to prevent blowouts or hydroplaning hazards, and consider a full tyre rotation to balance wear across all four. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also address the broader operational and safety concerns highlighted by the MOT history. The emissions advisory in 2025-11-11 indicates that the vehicle may not meet current emissions standards, which could pose environmental and regulatory risks if the vehicle is to be kept for extended periods. This may necessitate a tune-up or emissions system servicing, depending on the vehicle’s age and the underlying cause. The parking brake failure from 2021-09-28 is particularly concerning, as it could lead to brake drag, reduced braking efficiency, and potential safety hazards. Test the parking brake during the inspection—ensure it engages fully and releases smoothly without excessive effort or grinding noises. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and high mileage, a comprehensive service history check is essential. Verify that routine maintenance, such as oil changes, fluid top-ups, and timing belt replacement (if applicable), has been conducted according to the manufacturer’s schedule. For a 12-year-old vehicle with this level of usage, consider a full mechanical inspection by a qualified technician to assess the condition of the engine, transmission, and exhaust system, as well as the integrity of the vehicle’s structural components. Additionally, check the tyre sidewall for signs of age-related perishing, which can compromise their structural integrity even if they appear to have sufficient tread depth. Lastly, inspect the battery and electrical systems, as prolonged disuse or high mileage can accelerate battery failure, leading to electrical gremlins or ignition issues.