2016 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · LG16 ABO

The Citroën Relay in question presents a stable roadworthiness profile over the past three years, with the most recent MOT tests in June 2025 showing no defects recorded during either the failed or passed examinations. The absence of advisories or defects in the latest entries suggests that, at the time of testing, the vehicle met all DVSA thresholds for structural integrity, emissions, lighting, and critical mechanical systems. However, the two consecutive failures in April 2022—both without defects—are unusual and may indicate administrative errors or a brief period of non-compliance that was swiftly rectified. The clean slate in subsequent tests implies that any underlying issues were either resolved or non-existent, but the buyer should treat the 2022 failures as an anomaly worth probing further. Mileage accumulation aligns closely with the vehicle’s age, averaging around 11,969 miles per year, which is typical for a 10-year-old car of this type. The gap between the 2023 test (113,602 miles) and the 2025 tests (119,691 miles) spans roughly two years, suggesting the vehicle was either stored for extended periods or driven minimally during that time. The near-identical mileage figures in the 2025 failures (119,688 and 119,691 miles) further imply very low usage in the months leading up to the latest MOT, which could mask wear that might accelerate under regular driving. There’s no evidence of excessive mileage or rapid degradation, but the sparse testing frequency—particularly the two-year gap—means some wear progression may have occurred outside official scrutiny. Given the clean MOT history, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of components prone to silent degradation, particularly those not routinely checked in standard MOTs. Suspension bushes, coil springs, and ball joints should be assessed for wear, as these often deteriorate gradually without immediate safety implications. The brakes, while not flagged in the records, warrant close examination—check for uneven disc thickness, seized calipers, or excessive pedal travel, especially if the vehicle was driven sparingly before the 2025 tests. Structural corrosion remains a key concern for a Relay of this age; inspect wheel arches, sills, and underbody panels for surface rust or compromised sections, as these can compromise long-term safety. Finally, verify that all fluid levels—brake, coolant, and power steering—are within specification, as stagnant fluids can degrade seals and components over time.