2014 Citroen Nemo 1.2L Diesel · LC63 VLX

Chronic brake and restraint system faults define the mechanical narrative of this 2014 Citroen Nemo, with two separate MOT failures in the last three test cycles pointing to genuine safety concerns rather than cosmetic issues. The most recent test on 6 October 2023 returned a pass, but only after a fail was recorded the same day for an illuminated Supplementary Restraint System warning lamp, indicating an airbag or pretensioner circuit fault. This is not a trivial advisory, as an active SRS warning lamp typically signifies a stored crash sensor or squib fault that may prevent the airbag from deploying in a collision, and a diagnostic code read with a suitable tool such as Lexia or DiagBox would be essential before purchase. The previous cycle in October 2022 produced a clean pass, but it followed a same-day fail for service brake efficiency below requirements, suggesting the braking system has hovered around the legal threshold. Two years of borderline brake performance combined with an unresolved restraint system issue creates a meaningful mechanical risk profile that warrants close inspection rather than a casual viewing. With 121,603 miles accumulated over roughly twelve years, this Nemo is running at approximately 10,134 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a small commercial-derived van of this age. There are no extended gaps in the testing record that would suggest long periods off the road, and the mileage progression between tests is consistent with steady utility use rather than a vehicle that has been laid up and suffered the typical consequences of stationary corrosion or dried seals. That said, at this odometer reading the typical wear items on a Nemo, including the timing belt, clutch, dual mass flywheel if fitted, and front suspension components, will be approaching or have already passed their service thresholds, and the higher mileage amplifies the importance of verifying replacement histories. The consistent annual usage also means the engine and drivetrain have been kept working, which is generally favourable for lubricants and seals remaining active, though the advisory oil leak from 2023 indicates that some sealing work is likely imminent. Specific attention should be paid during any viewing to the brake system, given the 2022 failure for low service brake efficiency. On a road test, listen for any binding or dragging from the rear drums, which are common on this platform and can artificially skew brake balance readings, and check that the pedal feels firm without excessive travel or judder under firm application. Inspect the visible brake pipes and flexi hoses for surface corrosion, particularly along the underbody and behind the rear wheels where road salt collects, and examine the front discs and pads for lipping or uneven wear that could indicate a seized caliper slider. The oil leak advisory from the same 2023 test should be traced to its origin, as Nemo 1.4 HDi units are known to weep from the sump gasket, cam cover, and turbo oil feed, and a slight residue on the lower engine is acceptable, but fresh drips on the undertray or a strong diesel smell suggest a more pressing repair. The advisory for tyre damage on the nearside rear and the previous advisory for offside front edge wear indicate that the suspension geometry may be contributing to uneven contact patch deterioration. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, paying particular attention to the lower wishbone bushes and anti-roll bar drop links, which are known wear items on this platform and can produce a vague, wandering feel in the steering if perished. The steering should self-centre promptly after a turn, and any pulling to one side under braking or acceleration warrants further investigation. Finally, given the SRS warning lamp failure, request that the vehicle is driven to a Citroen specialist or equipped with DiagBox so the airbag fault codes can be read and cleared before committing, as a recurring warning lamp is a safety-critical defect that will also cause an immediate MOT failure at the next test.