2017 Citroen Berlingo 1.6L Diesel · LL17 AAJ

The most recent MOT, carried out on 24 August 2026, was passed. The test record shows a consistent pattern of minor and advisory items – an oil leak that remains within acceptable limits, deteriorating constant‑velocity (CV) boots on both front outer drive‑shaft joints, a non‑functioning off‑side registration‑plate lamp and a non‑obligatory rear stop lamp – alongside a previously dangerous tyre‑tread deficiency that was rectified after the 2024 failure. Overall the maintenance trend can be described as stable; the vehicle has not accumulated new dangerous defects, but the persistence of the oil leak and CV‑boot deterioration suggests that some components are approaching the point where corrective action will be required. At 104 443 miles recorded in September 2026, the Berlingo averages roughly 11 600 miles per year over its nine‑year life, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope. There are no obvious periods of prolonged inactivity that would raise concerns about age‑related perishing of rubber components, nor is there evidence of unusually high mileage that would accelerate wear on major drivetrain or suspension elements. The mileage therefore supports the view that the vehicle has been used in a moderate, everyday manner. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the oil‑leak advisory. Although classified as non‑excessive, the source should be identified – common origins include the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing or the front‑crankcase breather – and the leak should be monitored for any increase in volume or the appearance of oil on the exhaust or under the engine bay. The severely deteriorated CV boots on both front outer drive‑shaft joints merit close inspection; look for cracked or missing rubber, grease leakage on the joint, and listen for a clicking or whine when the steering is turned at low speed, which would indicate joint wear that could soon require boot replacement and joint repacking. The brake‑pad advisories from 2023 suggest that the pads were thin at that time; verify current pad thickness by visual inspection through the wheel spokes or by having a mechanic measure them, and be alert for any brake pedal pulsation, shudder or increased stopping distances that would point to worn pads or glazed surfaces. Finally, ensure that the off‑side rear tyre has been replaced following the 2024 tread‑depth failure and that all tyres now present even wear patterns and sufficient depth (minimum 1.6 mm), as uneven wear could reveal alignment or suspension issues. Beyond the recorded defects, age‑related checks are advisable. Examine the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry‑rot or hardening, especially if the vehicle has spent periods stationary, as ageing rubber can fail even with low mileage. Test the 12‑volt battery voltage and its ability to hold charge, as a nine‑year‑old battery may be nearing the end of its service life. Inspect the coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid for colour change, contamination or low levels, remembering that many manufacturers recommend fluid replacement at 2‑year intervals irrespective of mileage. Verify that the timing belt (or chain, depending on engine specification) has been serviced in accordance with the manufacturer’s schedule, as a missed service could lead to catastrophic engine damage. A thorough visual inspection of the chassis for corrosion, especially around the wheel arches, suspension mounting points and exhaust system, together with a review of the service book for regular oil changes and any major component replacements, will give a clear picture of the vehicle’s long‑term reliability.