2013 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · OO08 PCB

The most recent MOT test on 2026-03-19 resulted in a passing grade, though it was followed by a subsequent failure on the same date due to headlamp alignment issues that required adjustment. Despite this, the overall maintenance trend over the past three years shows a pattern of recurring but manageable advisories, with no major failures or critical defects beyond the headlamp alignment and registration plate lamp issues. The vehicle’s MOT history reflects a gradual accumulation of wear-related advisories—particularly concerning the front anti-roll bar linkages, suspension ball joints, and shock absorbers—rather than a sudden deterioration. The presence of multiple advisories on anti-roll bar bushings and tyres worn near legal limits suggests that the suspension and tyre systems are under increased scrutiny, likely due to the vehicle’s age and accumulated mileage. This consistency indicates that while the car is not currently failing roadworthiness tests, it requires proactive attention to prevent progressive wear from escalating into more severe mechanical issues. The recorded mileage of 197,522 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 13 years represents a high annual usage rate of around 15,194 miles per year, which is notably elevated for its age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on critical components like suspension bushes, ball joints, tyres, brakes, and drivetrain elements, as evidenced by the recurring MOT advisories. The absence of significant service intervals or maintenance logs suggests that the vehicle may have been driven under conditions that have led to rapid consumption of consumables and mechanical degradation. This pattern is particularly concerning for the suspension system, where repeated advisories about bush wear and ball joint play indicate that the anti-roll bar linkages and lower suspension components are experiencing excessive movement and potential fatigue. The high mileage also raises questions about the vehicle’s operational conditions, such as rough roads, heavy loads, or prolonged periods of idling, all of which can exacerbate wear. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise checking the front suspension components for signs of further deterioration. The anti-roll bar linkages show multiple advisories of worn bushes with slight play, which may lead to clunking noises when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces. Inspect the linkages for excessive movement, rust, or signs of separation, and listen for any metallic clunks or rattles during a test drive, particularly when cornering or navigating rough terrain. The suspension ball joints, including the near-side lower joint with severely deteriorated dust covers, should be examined for excessive play, corrosion, or binding, which could result in a rough ride or uneven tyre wear. Test drive the vehicle at various speeds and over different road surfaces to identify any suspension-related clunks, uneven ride height, or excessive bounce, as these may indicate failing shock absorbers or deteriorated coil springs. Additionally, the tyre advisories—particularly tyres worn close to the legal limit and low in depth—highlight the need for immediate attention. The offside front tyres have been noted as worn on the edge, which can lead to directional instability, reduced traction, and premature tread wear. Inspect the tyres for uneven wear patterns, cracks, or signs of dry rot, especially along the sidewall, as this can compromise safety. Given the high mileage, the tyres may also be approaching their service life, and replacing them could improve handling and fuel efficiency. The registration plate lamp failures and headlamp alignment issues, while not directly mechanical, must be addressed to ensure compliance with road lighting regulations. Lastly, given the vehicle’s age and usage, the buyer should verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged idling or electrical demand could lead to corrosion or failure. Check for signs of corrosion on terminals, test the battery’s charge capacity, and ensure all electrical systems are functioning without excessive draw. Fluid servicing, such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, should be checked for degradation, as these fluids can break down over time, even without significant mileage.