2019 Citroen Relay 2.0L Diesel · PL19 ANV

The 2019 Citroën Relay presents a concerning pattern of recurring mechanical advisories across three separate MOT examinations, with the most recent test on 2026-02-25 resulting in a pass while retaining persistent warnings about oil leakage and steering system play. Despite passing the latest assessment, the continued presence of an oil leak advisory alongside documented steering rack inner joint issues—both offside and nearside—and noted deterioration in rear tyres indicates that the underlying problems have not been resolved. The vehicle's history shows a cycle of passes and fails spanning late 2025 through early 2026, each time with overlapping issues around the steering assembly and powertrain fluids, suggesting a systemic rather than isolated fault that requires immediate investigation before any purchase decision is made. At 108,492 miles after seven years of ownership, the vehicle accumulates approximately 15,500 miles per year—a rate that is substantially higher than average for its age and would typically place a seven-year-old car closer to 90,000 miles or less. This elevated mileage trajectory implies either sustained heavy usage throughout the vehicle's life or prolonged periods of idling followed by sudden bursts of driving activity. The gap between the 2025-03-05 failed test and the 2026-02-25 passed test shows some improvement but does not fully account for the cumulative wear indicated by the mileage figure, as the majority of recorded testing occurred within the last two years when the car likely accumulated the bulk of its distance. The steering rack inner joint(s) exhibit consistent offside and nearside play across multiple assessments, a symptom that manifests as a noticeable steering wobble under load and potentially compromises handling stability. The nearside rear tyres are reported as slightly damaged or cracking, which could reduce braking effectiveness and introduce uneven wear patterns that compound the general high mileage burden. Additionally, the power steering pipe is described as insecure, meaning fluid could escape under stress, and the rear shock absorbers show light oil misting, signalling internal lubricant degradation that may progress to complete hydraulic failure if left unaddressed. During a test drive, the buyer should pay close attention to whether the steering feels loose or pulsatile through turns, note any vibration or pulling sensation when accelerating or decelerating, and watch for fluid drips from the power steering line or steering housing. Given the persistence of the oil leak advisory across four distinct MOT tests, the steering system issues appear to be interrelated rather than coincidental, pointing toward a shared root cause such as worn bushings, seal degradation, or improper bearing installation. The rear tyres requiring repair suggest that the high annualisation of mileage has accelerated tyre wear beyond normal expectations, particularly on the outer edges given the cited cracking. Before committing to this vehicle, the prospective buyer should arrange for a detailed inspection of the steering rack mounting bolts, tie rod ends, and power steering pump housing, verify that the oil leak source remains identified and sealed, and confirm that the rear tyres are adequately repaired to restore safe braking performance. Addressing these specific components will determine whether the car can be brought back to a reliable roadworthiness standard or whether further investment in repairs is required.