2022 Citroen Relay 35 L3H2 Eprise Bhdi S/S 2.2L Diesel · LD22 EEJ

The most recent MOT inspection on 25 March 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance trend shows signs of recent instability and a tendency toward reactive rather than preventative care. While the vehicle successfully cleared its previous failures, the transition from a failure involving a dangerous undertray issue and insufficient washer fluid to a pass indicates that essential repairs are being addressed, albeit often only when prompted by a test failure. The presence of recurring advisories regarding tyre wear suggests that while the vehicle is being kept roadworthy, certain consumable items are being allowed to reach their limits before intervention occurs. With a recorded mileage of 37,484 miles over approximately four years, this Citroen Relay has covered an average of roughly 9,371 miles per year. This usage profile is consistent with typical light-to-medium commercial use and does not suggest excessive heavy-duty strain or long periods of neglectful standing. However, the mileage is high enough that mechanical wear on suspension components, braking systems, and drivetrain elements should be closely monitored. The relatively steady accumulation of mileage means that components like brake pads and tyres are progressing through their service life at a predictable rate, which is preferable to the unpredictable degradation often seen in vehicles that sit idle for extended periods. A critical area for inspection is the front tyre condition, as the most recent MOT highlighted that they are wearing close to the legal limit and specifically on the edges. This uneven wear pattern is a significant indicator of potential geometry issues, such as misaligned tracking, worn suspension bushes, or faulty shock absorbers. During a test drive, you should listen for any rhythmic thumping or humming from the front end and check for any pulling to one side when the steering wheel is released on a level road. Furthermore, the previous advisory regarding the offside rear parking brake efficiency suggests that the rear braking mechanism may require a manual adjustment or a thorough inspection of the rear drums or calipers to ensure the handbrake remains effective and does not bind. You must also pay close attention to the condition of the tyres noted in the 2025 records for cracking and perishing. Even if the tread depth appears sufficient, sidewall degradation indicates that the rubber is aging and losing its structural integrity, which can lead to sudden failure under load. Inspect the sidewalls of all four tyres for any fine cracks or bulging. Additionally, given the recent failure regarding the engine undertray, ensure that all plastic shielding is securely fastened and present, as loose undertrays can cause aerodynamic drag or damage to other engine components. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that fluid changes and brake inspections have been carried out according to the manufacturer's schedule, rather than relying solely on the MOT test to identify maintenance needs.