2011 Citroen Berlingo 1.6L Diesel · ML61 LHO

This 2011 Citroen Berlingo presents an unusually sparse but ultimately clean DVSA roadworthiness record, with only four pass certificates on file and a single failed test on the same date as its most recent pass. The failure on 19 November 2021 was recorded alongside a pass on the identical date, which indicates the vehicle failed initially, had the necessary remedial work carried out at the test station, and was then re-presented successfully the same day under the standard MOT retest procedure. Notably, no advisory or defect items are associated with this failure, suggesting it was a relatively straightforward rectification rather than a structural or corrosion-related concern. Since that retest pass, the vehicle has secured three consecutive clean passes in April 2023, April 2024, and most recently 16 April 2025, with no advisories recorded on any of those tests. This pattern points to a vehicle that has remained structurally and mechanically sound throughout the documented test history, with no recurring wear points flagged on suspension, braking, exhaust, or underbody components. Recorded mileage of 150,294 miles on a 15-year-old commercial-derived MPV works out to roughly 10,000 miles annually, which sits squarely within the typical usage band for a working Berlingo of this era and suggests the vehicle has seen consistent rather than intensive service. However, the MOT history itself is unusually thin, with only five test entries spanning what should be 13 annual tests from 2012 onwards. Such a sparse record often reflects either a long period off the road under SORN, a vehicle that only entered the testing record when first re-registered for use on public roads, or potentially a change of keeper history that has not generated full annual entries. Mechanically, this matters less than it might for a higher-stressed passenger car, as Berlingos of this generation are utilitarian vehicles designed for high-mileage durability, but a buyer should still confirm the continuity of the mileage figure and ensure the recorded odometer reading aligns with the V5C logbook and any service history present. For a prospective buyer, the absence of any recorded advisories across four consecutive passes is genuinely reassuring but should not replace a physical inspection, as the MOT test is a sampled roadworthiness check rather than a comprehensive mechanical survey. Given the age and likely working background of this Berlingo, particular attention should be paid during a test drive to the front MacPherson strut suspension, listening for knocks or clonks over uneven surfaces which would indicate worn top mounts, droplinks, or anti-roll bar bushes typical of vans of this mileage. The steering should be checked for vagueness or a knocking sensation through the wheel, which can signify worn track rod ends or front strut bearings. Brake feel should be firm and progressive without excessive pedal travel or judder under load, as the absence of brake-related advisories in the MOT record does not eliminate the possibility of corroded rear drums or binding calipers developing since the last test. Underneath the vehicle, a thorough inspection for corrosion is essential even though none has been flagged, as Berlingos of this generation are known to develop subframe and sill corrosion, particularly around the rear spring platforms and the front suspension turrets where water and road salt collect. Check for any signs of fluid misting from the engine or gearbox, and inspect the exhaust system for signs of corrosion or blow, particularly at the flexible joints and rear silencer, as exhaust replacement is a common MOT-related issue on high-mileage French vans of this vintage. The clutch should be tested for slipping under load in higher gears, and the diesel engine, if fitted, should be allowed to warm up fully before driving, listening for any timing chain rattle on cold start which is a known concern on certain PSA diesel units of this era. Finally, confirm that all warning lamps extinguish promptly after start-up and that the cooling system maintains a stable temperature, as these items fall outside the MOT scope but can signal impending mechanical expense on a vehicle of this age and mileage.