2018 Citroen Dispatch 1.6L Diesel · LC68 FSY

The most recent MOT test passed in March 2024, but the inspection reveals a persistent and concerning trend regarding the vehicle's braking system. While the dangerous failure noted in 2021 regarding insufficient brake pad thickness appears to have been rectified, the advisories for pitted and scored brake discs on both the front and rear axles have remained a recurring issue. Furthermore, the report of fluctuating service brakes indicates that the braking performance is not perfectly consistent. This suggests a maintenance pattern where critical safety failures are addressed, but the underlying wear on the discs and the potential for uneven braking pressure are not being fully resolved, leading to a stable but deteriorating condition in the braking hardware. The recorded mileage of 36,825 miles for an eight-year-old vehicle is significantly lower than the industry average for a commercial van, averaging roughly 4,600 miles per year. While this low mileage implies reduced wear on the engine, gearbox, and drivetrain, it also suggests the vehicle may have spent considerable time stationary or has been used only for very short, infrequent trips. Mechanically, this usage profile can be deceptive; while the odometer shows low wear, the vehicle may be subject to age-related degradation that is independent of distance travelled, such as the hardening of rubber components and the degradation of chemical fluids. During your test drive, you should pay close attention to the braking performance to address the recurring advisories. Listen for any metallic grinding or squealing, which could indicate worn pads or damaged discs, and feel for any pulsations or shuddering through the brake pedal when applying pressure, which would confirm the reported brake fluctuation. It is also important to check for any signs of binding calipers or uneven tyre wear, which can stem from the pitted disc surfaces or sticking components. Given the history of scored discs, you should enquire whether the discs and pads have been replaced recently, as continuing to drive on pitted surfaces will accelerate wear on new components. In addition to the braking system, the low-mileage profile necessitates a thorough inspection of age-sensitive items. Examine the tyres carefully for sidewall cracking or perishing, as rubber components can degrade and lose structural integrity due to age even if the tread depth is ample. Check the vehicle's underside for signs of corrosion on the exhaust and suspension components, which can occur when a vehicle is not driven regularly enough to clear moisture. Finally, verify the service book for evidence of time-based maintenance; even with low mileage, essential fluids such as engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid should be changed according to the manufacturer's calendar intervals to prevent internal oxidation and sludge buildup.