2017 Citroen Relay 2.0L Diesel · LJ67 AVU

The most recent MOT, dated 8 May 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that any remedial work required after the failure on 7 May 2026 was carried out satisfactorily. The earlier failure highlighted a dangerous near‑side front suspension arm ball‑joint and a minor oil leak; both were evidently rectified before the subsequent test. Over the past three years the record shows three passes and one isolated failure, suggesting a generally stable maintenance pattern with a single significant issue that has now been addressed. At 139 753 miles the 2017 Citroën Relay averages roughly 15 500 miles per annum, well above the typical UK fleet average of around 10 000 miles per year. This level of utilisation accelerates wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes, suspension bushings and engine oil, and it places additional stress on the drivetrain and cooling system. There are no large mileage gaps in the MOT log, implying the vehicle has been driven consistently rather than sitting idle for long periods, which reduces the risk of corrosion from standing but increases the cumulative fatigue on moving parts. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front suspension arm and ball‑joint on the nearside. Check for any play or clunking when the steering wheel is turned at low speed and when the vehicle is rocked front‑to‑rear; excessive movement may indicate the joint is not fully secure or that the repair was sub‑standard. Inspect the engine bay for fresh oil traces around the valve cover, oil filter and oil pan, and verify that the oil level is correct and the oil is not contaminated. The advisory from September 2023 about the off‑side rear tyre being close to the legal limit and showing inner‑edge wear warrants a thorough tyre inspection: measure tread depth across the width, look for cupping, sidewall cracking and uneven wear patterns that could point to mis‑alignment or worn rear suspension components. Given the vehicle’s age of nine years, even with regular use, time‑related degradation must be checked. Examine the tyre sidewalls for age‑related perishing, as rubber can become brittle after six to ten years regardless of tread depth. Assess the 12 V battery for terminal corrosion and test its cranking voltage, especially if the car has been idle for any extended periods. Verify that brake discs are free of deep scoring and that pads have sufficient material; look for any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes, which could indicate warped discs from heat cycling. Finally, confirm that coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been replaced at the recommended intervals, and that the service book contains stamps or receipts matching the mileage and dates, as these records will give confidence that the vehicle’s critical fluids and wear items have been maintained in line with the manufacturer’s schedule.