2022 Citroen Relay 35 L2H2 Eprise Bhdi S/S 2.2L Diesel · LL22 UHV

The most recent MOT test on the Citroën C-Series Relay 35 L2H2 Epírise occurred on 2026-07-10, resulting in a failure due to serious fluid leaks in both rear offside and nearside shock absorbers, which is a critical failure under DVSA standards. This marks a significant deviation from the vehicle’s previous MOT history, where the only recorded issues were minor advisories—specifically, nearside front tyre wear approaching legal limits and a slight play in the nearside front track rod end ball joint. The failure in 2026 suggests either a catastrophic failure of the hydraulic or mechanical components within the shock absorbers, potentially exacerbated by prolonged exposure to road conditions or neglect in addressing earlier advisories. The absence of any prior major defects in the last two years prior to this failure implies that the leaks may have developed rapidly, warranting immediate attention to prevent further damage to the suspension system, which could lead to uneven tyre wear, reduced handling stability, or even suspension failure under load. The recorded mileage of 98,863 miles for a vehicle aged approximately four years represents a high annual usage rate of around 24,716 miles, which is notably elevated for its age. Such mileage accumulation typically indicates either intensive daily use, frequent short trips that stress components like brakes and suspension, or a combination of both. The rapid mileage suggests that consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and suspension components may have experienced accelerated wear, particularly given the presence of the nearside front tyre advisory from 2025 and the recent shock absorber failures. Additionally, high-mileage vehicles are more prone to issues related to fluid degradation, such as brake fluid contamination or coolant system wear, as well as potential internal component fatigue in the drivetrain or exhaust system. The lack of significant mileage gaps implies that the vehicle has not been stored in a static condition, which could otherwise mitigate some wear risks but may also mean that the vehicle has been subjected to more aggressive driving conditions. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise checking the rear suspension components for signs of further degradation beyond the MOT-recorded leaks. Visually inspect the rear shock absorbers for oil stains, bulging seals, or excessive play when the vehicle is raised on a jack, and listen for unusual noises during a test drive, particularly on bumps or when cornering, which may indicate failing hydraulic seals or internal damage. The nearside front tyre wear advisory suggests that the tyre may have been underinflated or driven at high speeds, leading to uneven edge wear—this could also affect handling and tyre longevity. During the test drive, monitor for uneven tyre wear patterns, excessive vibration, or a pulling sensation, which may indicate misalignment or worn track rod ends. Additionally, the brake system should be inspected for signs of excessive brake pad or rotor wear, as the MOT failure indicates reduced brake efficiency, which could be due to glazed discs, warped rotors, or binding calipers. Ensure that the brake fluid is checked for contamination or moisture, as this can compromise braking performance. For the Citroën C-Series Relay 35 L2H2 Epírise at this mileage and age, the buyer should also conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s structural integrity, fluid levels, and consumables. Given the high mileage, verify the condition of the 12-volt battery, as prolonged use can lead to corrosion on terminals or reduced capacity, which may cause electrical gremlins or poor starting. Check the coolant system for signs of overheating, such as discoloured coolant or a hot engine bay, and ensure the radiator and hoses are free from cracks or leaks, as the Epírise’s engine may be prone to thermal stress over time. The exhaust system should be inspected for corrosion, particularly in the catalytic converter area, and listen for unusual noises or backpressure during acceleration, which could indicate exhaust manifold or muffler issues. Finally, ensure that the service history is up to date, particularly for fluid servicing intervals, as the vehicle’s age and mileage may warrant a review of the brake, coolant, and transmission fluids, even if the MOT has passed. If the buyer is concerned about the recent shock absorber failures, they should consider having the vehicle professionally inspected by a specialist in Citroën or L2H2 systems to assess the extent of the damage and plan for replacement or repair.