2018 Citroen Relay 2.0L Diesel · LD18 DTV

The 2018 Citroen Relay presents a generally stable roadworthiness profile heading into mid-2026, though the maintenance pattern reveals a vehicle that has been worked hard rather than cosseted. The most recent MOT on 16 March 2026 at 149,989 miles resulted in a pass, but the tester flagged damage to both rear light lenses, windscreen chipping, and a minor oil leak. None of these are serious structural failures, yet the recurrence of oil seepage across consecutive tests points to a slow, persistent issue rather than a one-off repair. The trend is broadly stable, with no sudden escalation in defects, but the accumulating minor faults suggest a pattern of reactive rather than preventative maintenance. This van has covered 149,989 miles in just over eight years, averaging nearly 18,750 miles annually. That is a high annual rate, consistent with intensive commercial or long-distance private use. The mileage progression is clean and consistent: 96,155 miles in March 2023, 113,665 miles in March 2024, 133,429 miles in March 2025, and 149,989 miles in March 2026. There are no suspicious gaps or sudden drops, indicating the vehicle has been in regular service without prolonged periods of inactivity. The annual increments hover between roughly 17,000 and 20,000 miles, confirming sustained high-load operation rather than light domestic use. This level of utilisation places accelerated stress on suspension bushes, brake discs and pads, drivetrain mounts, and exhaust components. The most telling defect in the history is the recurring oil leak, noted as "not excessive" in both the March 2025 and March 2026 tests. On a high-mileage diesel van of this age, oil seepage commonly originates from the rocker cover gasket, turbo oil feed pipe, or crankshaft oil seal. Left unaddressed, even minor leaks can worsen and contaminate drive belts or hot exhaust surfaces. The March 2024 failure for a loose nearside rear wheel fixing is more concerning. A loose wheel nut suggests either improper refitting after a tyre change or a stripped stud, both of which warrant close inspection of the hub, studs, and wheel mounting faces before purchase. A buyer should prioritise a thorough underbody inspection focused on corrosion to the chassis rails, outriggers, and suspension mounting points, as high-mileage vans used commercially often suffer from surface rust that can compromise structural integrity over time. The front and rear suspension should be checked for worn drop links, deteriorated bushes, and weakened coil springs, all of which accelerate under heavy use. Brake condition, particularly rear caliper operation given the history of minor oil contamination near the rear end, should be assessed for binding or uneven pad wear. The windscreen chip and rear light lens damage are minor but worth verifying for water ingress and compliance before the next test cycle.