2015 Mercedes-Benz Citan 1.5L Diesel · P121 AAC

The most recent DVSA MOT test conducted on 20 May 2026 resulted in a Pass, although the examiner recorded two minor defects and three advisory items. While the absence of failure items is reassuring, the gradual accumulation of advisories across consecutive tests, particularly regarding front tyre wear, an oil leak, and rear brake binding, suggests a maintenance trend that is best described as stable but with creeping deterioration rather than clear improvement. The earlier failure on 25 April 2025 was driven by headlamp issues, which are likely straightforward electrical items, but the underlying advisories around corroded suspension components and sub-frame corrosion are worth monitoring carefully as they represent progressive structural ageing. Taken together, the test history points to a vehicle that is being kept roadworthy through ongoing attention but is entering a phase where age-related wear items are becoming more frequent. The recorded mileage of 123,559 miles over approximately eleven years equates to an annual average of around 11,233 miles, which is broadly typical for a commercial-derived light van such as the Citan and consistent with its likely working use. There is a notable gap in the MOT history between May 2023 and April 2025, which could reflect either a change of keeper, a period off the road, or simply a missing test record, and it is worth verifying continuity of service history across that interval. The mileage accumulation appears steady rather than aggressive, which is generally favourable for a commercial vehicle, although the higher-than-average odometer reading means that consumable items such as clutches, suspension bushes, turbo components (if applicable), and timing chains or belts will have been subjected to considerable wear and should be inspected with that usage in mind. For a prospective buyer, the recurring advisories warrant particular attention during a physical inspection and test drive. The notes on both front tyres wearing on the inside edge suggest a potential tracking or suspension geometry issue, most likely worn or perished suspension bushes, top mounts, or weakened coil springs, so listen for clonking noises over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and check for uneven shoulder wear on any replacement tyres fitted since the test. The offside rear service brake binding advisory suggests a caliper slide pin or piston issue that could lead to uneven braking, pulling to one side, or premature rear pad and disc wear, and a test drive should include firm pedal applications from speed to detect any rear brake drag or judder. The oil leak advisory, though not excessive, is worth tracing to its source, as prolonged seepage from valve cover gaskets, turbo oil feed lines, or sump gaskets can lead to component failure and should be addressed before accumulation worsens. The corrosion advisories on the rear sub-frame and nearside front lower suspension arm are particularly relevant for a vehicle of this age and working background, as salt exposure and load carrying accelerate chassis corrosion, so a thorough inspection on a ramp for any signs of structural weakening beyond what was recorded would be prudent. Given the age, mileage, and commercial heritage of this Citan, there are several age-related items that may not appear on an MOT but deserve close attention. Brake fluid and coolant should have been renewed on a calendar basis regardless of mileage, as their corrosion-inhibiting properties degrade over time, and a twelve-year-old battery is almost certainly due for replacement, so check the battery date stamp and test its resting voltage. Tyre sidewalls should be examined carefully for perishing and cracking, as age-hardened rubber can fail suddenly even with adequate tread depth, and any tyres older than five years should be regarded as a safety priority. The windscreen damage noted on multiple tests, although not obstructing the driver's view, is worth inspecting to ensure it has not propagated, and the registration plate lamp should be verified as functional, as these minor items can easily be resolved prior to sale. Finally, a thorough service history review is essential, with particular emphasis on the timing belt or chain replacement interval, clutch wear, and any records relating to the dual mass flywheel, as these represent the most significant upcoming expenditure items on a high-mileage commercial van.