2016 Citroen Berlingo 1.6L Diesel · LB65 NME

The 2016 Citroën Berlingo’s most recent MOT test, conducted on 20 June 2025 at 136,976 miles, passed without any recorded defects, though it was preceded by a failed test just one day earlier at 136,975 miles. This abrupt reversal suggests either a last-minute correction of a minor, non-structural issue—likely a consumable or easily addressable component—or an administrative oversight in the initial test. The vehicle’s MOT history over the past three years shows no consistent pattern of recurring faults, as all tests either passed cleanly or failed without specific defects noted. However, the repeated failures at identical mileages in consecutive years (2024 and 2025) warrant scrutiny, particularly if the same underlying problem was not addressed between tests. The recorded mileage of 136,976 miles over a decade indicates aggressive usage, averaging nearly 13,700 miles annually—well above the typical 10,000-mile-per-year benchmark for this age of vehicle. The gaps between tests are unusually tight, with just 12 days separating the 2024 and 2025 failures, and similarly short intervals between passes. This suggests either a deliberate attempt to meet MOT deadlines without addressing underlying wear or a vehicle that has been driven consistently without prolonged periods of rest. The lack of mileage gaps larger than a few months implies no extended periods of storage, which could have mitigated some wear, but also means components like suspension bushes, brake pads, and tyres have endured continuous stress. Given the absence of specific defect details in the MOT records, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear areas that often fail without clear warning. The suspension—particularly the rear bushes and coil springs—should be checked for excessive play or corrosion, as these components degrade gradually and can compromise handling and ride quality. Brake systems, including calipers, pads, and discs, should be inspected for uneven wear or binding, especially if the vehicle was driven hard over the past year. Corrosion around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe is another critical area, as the Berlingo’s van body is prone to rust in these regions. Finally, the exhaust system should be examined for leaks or excessive rust, as catalytic converter failures or cracked pipes are common in high-mileage examples. The lack of advisories in past tests does not guarantee these areas are sound, but it does indicate no prior tester flagged obvious issues.