2012 Citroen Berlingo 1.6L Diesel · PD11 RAM

The most recent MOT inspection for this Citroen Berlingo resulted in a pass on 11 December 2025, following a failure just one day prior. While the vehicle is currently compliant, the maintenance trend suggests a reactive approach to repairs rather than proactive servicing. The recent failure involved significant mechanical issues, including a split nearside outer drive shaft constant velocity boot and a faulty suspension arm ball joint dust cover, both of which are critical for protecting drivetrain and steering components from contamination. Although these major defects were rectified to achieve the pass, the recurring nature of advisories regarding brake components and suspension bushes indicates that the vehicle is entering a phase of increased component degradation. With a recorded mileage of 65,726 over approximately 14 years, this vehicle has averaged roughly 4,700 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, suggesting the vehicle has been used sparingly or has spent extended periods stationary. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and gearbox, it presents specific risks for a vehicle of this age. Low usage often leads to the degradation of rubber components due to lack of movement and environmental exposure, as well as the potential for fluid breakdown and moisture accumulation within the braking system and exhaust. A primary concern for a prospective buyer is the recurring advisory regarding the brake system. The most recent records highlight corrosion on the ferrules of both nearside and offside rear brake hoses. This corrosion can eventually lead to hose failure or restricted fluid flow, which may cause a spongy brake pedal or inconsistent braking performance. Furthermore, previous advisories regarding worn brake discs and suspension arm bushes suggest that the front and rear braking assemblies and the suspension geometry are nearing the end of their service life. During a test drive, you should listen for any knocking or clunking sounds from the front end when traversing uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn suspension bushes or ball joints, and check for any brake pedal pulsation or shuddering that might signal warped or heavily pitted discs. Given the low annual mileage, you must conduct a thorough physical inspection of all rubber elements. Check the tyre sidewalls for signs of perishing, cracking, or bulging, as seen in previous MOT failures, as older tyres can lose structural integrity even if they have ample tread. Inspect the underside of the vehicle for signs of standing corrosion or binding calipers, which can occur when a vehicle is not driven frequently enough to clear debris and prevent rust buildup. It is also highly recommended to verify the service history to ensure that oil, coolant, and brake fluid have been changed based on time intervals rather than just mileage, as these fluids degrade chemically over time regardless of distance travelled.