2011 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · ND60 PYF

The Citroën Relay in question presents a stable roadworthiness profile over the past three MOT cycles, with no defects recorded in any of the five tests between June 2023 and June 2025. The most recent assessment, conducted on 25 June 2025 at 73,600 miles, passed without advisories or failures, suggesting the vehicle meets current DVSA standards for emissions, lighting, and mechanical integrity. The absence of recurring advisories or defects in this period indicates that, from a paper trail perspective, the car has been maintained to a level where critical components—such as brakes, suspension, and structural integrity—have not deteriorated beyond MOT thresholds. That said, the back-to-back failures on 24 and 25 June 2025, both at identical mileages, are unusual and warrant closer scrutiny, as they imply either a procedural error or an issue resolved within a 24-hour window that wasn’t documented. The mileage accumulation of 4,907 miles per year is exceptionally low for a 15-year-old vehicle, averaging just over 400 miles annually. This suggests either infrequent use, prolonged periods of inactivity, or potential odometer discrepancies. The gaps between tests—particularly the 1,751-mile jump between 60,909 miles (June 2023) and 66,851 miles (June 2024)—could indicate sporadic driving, storage, or even a reset. Such low mileage typically reduces wear on consumables like tyres and brakes, but it may also mask deferred maintenance, especially if the car has sat unused for extended periods. Without advisories, there’s no evidence of neglect, but the lack of mileage progression raises questions about whether the vehicle has been driven regularly enough to identify latent issues. For a prospective buyer, the absence of defects in the MOT history is encouraging, but a hands-on inspection should prioritise components prone to degradation in low-mileage, long-term storage. Check the condition of suspension bushes, coil springs, and anti-roll bars for dry rot or cracking, as these can degrade even with minimal use. Inspect the brake system thoroughly—look for uneven wear on discs and pads, binding calipers, or seized components, particularly since the 2025 failures occurred at the same mileage. Structural corrosion, especially around wheel arches, sills, and underbody panels, should be examined closely, as moisture ingress during periods of disuse can accelerate rust. Finally, verify the condition of the exhaust system for leaks or corrosion, and confirm that all fluid levels—brakes, coolant, and power steering—are topped up and free of contamination, as stagnant fluids can degrade seals and hoses over time.