2022 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · LB22 AAX

The Citroën C-Series Relay’s latest MOT test on 2026-09-01 reflects a critical failure in the brake lighting system, with both offside and front lamp circuits exhibiting the same operational defect—where a primary brake light is inadvertently triggered by the operation of an auxiliary indicator lamp (63.1.g). This failure is a major issue, indicating a wiring fault or shared circuit that compromises the vehicle’s brake light integrity, which is a mandatory safety requirement. The prior MOTs in 2024 and 2025, while passing, included recurring advisories related to wheel nut inspection limitations due to fitted wheel trims, suggesting that while the vehicle’s structural and functional checks were otherwise compliant, the brake system’s reliability has been a persistent concern. The pattern of failures and advisories indicates a trend of unresolved or intermittent issues, particularly in the electrical and mechanical interfaces between the brake and indicator systems, warranting immediate attention to prevent further compliance risks and potential road safety hazards. The recorded mileage of 4,399 miles for a 2022 Citroën Relay represents a notably low annual usage rate of approximately 1,100 miles per year, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age and model. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged stationary use, particularly in climate-controlled environments where condensation and standing fluids can accelerate corrosion and degradation in suspension components, brake systems, and electrical connections. The absence of higher mileage accumulation suggests that the vehicle has not undergone rigorous operational stress, but this also raises concerns about potential hidden wear from static conditions—such as corrosion on brake discs or calipers due to prolonged braking without movement, or the degradation of suspension bushes and coil springs from lack of dynamic loading. Additionally, the low mileage may mask underlying issues that only manifest under heavier use, such as drivetrain wear or fluid degradation over time. Given the recent MOT failure in the brake lighting system, the prospective buyer must prioritise addressing the electrical wiring fault to restore compliance and prevent further failures. The symptoms to watch for during a test drive include a noticeable flashing or intermittent brake light when indicators are engaged, or the brake lights failing to illuminate consistently when the foot brake is applied. The buyer should also inspect the brake system thoroughly, checking for uneven wear on brake discs, potential binding in calipers, or corrosion on the brake lines and hoses. If the electrical issue cannot be resolved quickly, the vehicle should not be driven until the defect is rectified to avoid compromising roadworthiness. Beyond this, the buyer should also verify the condition of the wheel nuts, as the recurring advisories suggest that the torque settings may not be up to standard, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. For the Citroën Relay’s age and current mileage, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection focusing on the following areas: the tyre condition, particularly for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can indicate long-term exposure to environmental elements; the 12V battery health, as low usage may lead to diminished capacity or corrosion in terminals; and the brake system for any signs of corrosion or binding, especially if the vehicle has stood for prolonged periods. Additionally, the fluid levels in the brake, coolant, and power steering systems should be checked for freshness and contamination, as fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the vehicle has not been serviced recently, the buyer should verify the presence of any service book stamps, particularly for fluid replacements and suspension component checks, to ensure that consumables have been maintained in line with manufacturer recommendations. Lastly, a thorough inspection of the exhaust system for leaks or structural integrity is advisable, given the potential for condensation-related corrosion in low-mileage vehicles.