2014 Citroen Dispatch 1.6L Diesel · LP14 LCL

The most recent MOT, dated 11 June 2026, was passed but carried two advisories – a front brake disc showing wear and a defective middle section of the exhaust mounting. Over the last four years the vehicle has moved from a failed test in June 2023 (major emissions excess, incorrect headlamp aim and a non‑functional stop lamp) to a clean pass, yet the same categories of defects keep re‑appearing: exhaust mounting corrosion, a front oil leak, a slight steering rack leak and progressive brake disc wear. This pattern suggests a maintenance regime that has stabilised enough to clear the MOT but is not fully addressing recurring wear points, so the overall trend is marginally improving but still requires attention to the highlighted components. At 106 607 miles the car averages just under 9 000 miles per year, which is typical for a 2014 model. The mileage does not indicate any periods of extreme use, nor does it suggest long stretches of inactivity that would accelerate age‑related deterioration. Consequently the wear on wear‑items such as tyres, brake pads and suspension bushings should be consistent with a vehicle of this age and mileage, but the modest annual run‑rate also means that components may have been subject to occasional idle periods, potentially encouraging corrosion in the exhaust system and fluid degradation. A prospective buyer should give particular focus to the exhaust system, checking the mounting brackets for rust, cracks or loose bolts and listening for rattles or hissing noises that would indicate a leak. The front brake discs should be measured for remaining thickness; any disc thickness approaching the minimum limit will soon require replacement and could be manifested by a high‑pitched squeal, brake pedal pulsation or reduced braking efficiency. The front oil leak noted in 2025 is likely to be a valve‑cover gasket or oil separator issue – a visual inspection for oil stains around the cylinder head and a check for low oil level are advisable. The steering rack’s slight leak should be confirmed by inspecting the power‑steering reservoir for low fluid and by feeling for any stiffness, whining or a loss of assist during a low‑speed manoeuvre. In addition to the recurring items, the buyer should verify that all external lamps – stop lamps, registration plate lamp and headlamps – are fully operational and correctly aimed, as previous advisories indicate intermittent failures. The off‑side front tyre that was reported as cracked or perishing should be examined for sidewall cracks, tread depth and uniform wear; tyre age is also a factor, so any tyre older than six years should be considered for replacement regardless of tread. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, a battery load test, inspection of coolant and brake fluid condition, and confirmation that the service book shows regular oil changes and any required timing‑belt or timing‑chain service will help ensure that hidden time‑based wear has not been neglected. Addressing the exhaust mounts, brake discs and oil leak promptly will avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep the vehicle road‑worthy for the next MOT cycle.