2013 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · HN13 UGH

The most recent MOT test on 2025-08-08 confirms this Citroën Relay passed without defects, but the preceding failure on 2025-08-04 exposes critical recurring issues that demand immediate attention. Structural corrosion at both rear suspension mountings—flagged twice in 2025 and once in 2024—signals a severe weakening of the inner sills, compromising the vehicle’s load-bearing capacity and alignment stability. The repeated failure of the headlamp levelling device and parking brake inefficiency further indicate neglect of critical safety systems. While the 2024 and 2023 tests reveal a pattern of avoidable faults—including front suspension leaks, deteriorated CV boots, and damaged brake cables—there is no evidence of progressive improvement, suggesting either inconsistent maintenance or a lack of owner diligence. The recorded mileage of 123,480 miles at the latest test reflects an average of approximately 9,500 miles per year over the vehicle’s 13-year lifespan, which aligns with typical usage patterns for its age. However, the gap between the 2024 and 2025 MOTs—just 6,636 miles in 15 months—raises questions about the vehicle’s storage conditions or whether it was driven sporadically during periods of inactivity. The absence of a 2023 or 2022 test record prevents a fuller assessment of long-term wear trends, but the concentration of failures in 2023 and 2024 suggests a window where critical components were either overlooked or allowed to degrade beyond serviceable limits. A prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the rear suspension mountings, where corrosion has been flagged as structurally compromising. The inner sills’ condition warrants close examination for further deterioration, particularly around the wheel arches and subframe connections. Front suspension components, including the near-side shock absorbers (which leaked in 2024 and showed misting in 2023), should be checked for persistent fluid loss or internal damage, as well as the CV joint boots, which were severely deteriorated in 2023. The brake system merits scrutiny, especially the rear brake cables—cracked casings were noted in 2023—and the parking brake’s efficiency, which failed inspection twice in the last 18 months. Finally, the headlamp levelling device’s repeated inoperability suggests either a faulty actuator or wiring issue that could affect visibility and legal compliance.