2015 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · LL65 AXY

A recurring theme of lighting defects, tyre structural failures, and brake component wear dominates the MOT history of this 2015 Citroen Relay, with the most recent test on 11 December 2025 passing only after a prior-day failure on 10 December 2025 addressed serious safety items. That pre-test failure listed a dangerous nearside rear tyre with a tear caused by structural separation, an excessively twisted offside front brake hose, two headlamp aim defects on both sides, and a non-functioning offside side repeater. The same 2025 pass then recorded a steering rack seepage, light oil misting on both front shock absorbers, a slightly binding nearside front service brake, perished offside rear tyre rubber, and a windscreen chip. Across 2021, 2024, and 2025, lighting failures have appeared three times (outer position lamp, nearside dipped beam, and headlamp aim), and tyre condition has been flagged as an advisory or failure in three consecutive tests, pointing to a pattern rather than isolated wear. With 127,234 miles recorded over an 11-year life, the vehicle averages roughly 11,567 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a commercial van of this age and broadly consistent across the visible test dates. There are no extended gaps in testing that would suggest long periods off the road, and the mileage progression between tests appears steady rather than abrupt. Mechanically, this level of sustained use places meaningful cumulative load on suspension bushes, shock absorbers, brake discs and pads, steering rack components, and the clutch and dual-mass flywheel if fitted. The 2022 advisory on thinning rear brake pads and the 2025 advisories on front shocks and steering seepage align with the expected wear profile for a high-mileage commercial platform, though the recurrence of tyre structural issues is more concerning than ordinary tread wear. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the steering rack seepage flagged in December 2025. On a test drive, listen for any whining or groaning from the rack during low-speed manoeuvres, watch for any momentary drop in power assistance when parking, and place the vehicle on level ground afterwards to check for fresh fluid accumulation under the front subframe. The front shock absorbers showing oil misting should be inspected for any obvious external wetness, and the vehicle should be driven over undulating road surfaces to feel for excessive bouncing, poor damping recovery, or front-end wallow. The binding nearside front service brake is worth monitoring by checking for hot wheels after a short drive, any pulling to one side under braking, and uneven pad wear on inspection. The 2025 brake hose twisted so excessively that it was recorded as a major defect, which raises a question about how the front brake hoses are routed and whether they have been refitted incorrectly after any previous work. On inspection, look for any hose that appears taut, kinked, or twisted along its length, particularly when the steering is turned to full lock. Tyre condition has been the most consistent failure theme, with a dangerous structural separation recorded on the nearside rear and cut or perished tyres noted in 2024 and 2025; budget for a full four-tyre replacement and inspect the wheels for any kerbing damage. Finally, given the repeated headlamp aim and bulb failures across three tests, check that both headlamp levelling motors operate correctly, confirm the aim with a beam setter if possible, and verify that all side repeaters, position lamps, and the windscreen washer function as intended before purchase.