2015 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · PO65 DXF

A chronic and recurring parking brake defect is the defining mechanical concern in the MOT history of this 2015 Citroen Relay, with multiple failures and advisories directly linked to the handbrake assembly across four of the recorded tests. The most recent examination on 5 June 2026 recorded a pass with no defects, which suggests the issue may have been rectified, but the pattern over the preceding six years is difficult to overlook. In October 2020 the vehicle failed with parking brake efficiency below 50 percent of the required value alongside excessive lever movement, was presented again four days later in 2021 with both parking brake actuators recorded as inoperative, and in late October 2022 again failed on parking brake efficiency below requirements. An advisory noting both rear brakes pulling only 45 kg on the free wheel was also issued at that 2022 test, before a clean pass in August 2024. A buyer cannot assume the most recent pass indicates the system has been permanently resolved, particularly given how the defect has recurred in clusters across separate test cycles. At 141,651 miles over approximately eleven years of use, this Relay has accumulated an average of around 12,800 miles per year, which is a high figure for a vehicle of this age and class. This rate of accumulation places sustained demand on the braking system, suspension components, clutch, drivetrain mounts and engine ancillaries, all of which would be expected to show wear consistent with heavy commercial or long-distance use. There are also notable gaps in the testing record, with intervals stretching beyond twelve months on more than one occasion, including a period of roughly twenty-one months between the November 2022 pass and the August 2024 test. Such gaps may simply reflect operational scheduling for a working vehicle, but they do mean that intermediate deterioration is not independently verified. Given the repeated handbrake faults, particular attention should be paid to the rear brake mechanism on inspection and during any test drive. The calipers, cables, drum or disc actuators and the lever assembly itself should be examined for seized mechanisms, stretched cables, corroded adjusters or seized caliper pistons. On a test drive, the vehicle should be parked on an incline and the handbrake applied firmly to confirm it holds without excessive travel, and a low-speed stop should produce firm, even braking without pulling. Any rear brake judder, uneven pedal feel or warning of the brakes dragging after release would warrant closer investigation. The 2022 advisory noting both rear brakes pulling only 45 kg on the free wheel is a specific concern, as rear brake imbalance can mask caliper or shoe wear that may have since progressed. The 2022 failure for ineffective windscreen wiper operation is also worth verifying directly, as wiper linkage and motor faults on commercial vehicles of this age commonly relate to worn linkages or failing electric motors rather than simply perished blades. Additionally, the 2020 major defect for a fuel leak at the fuel filter area should be confirmed as fully rectified, with a careful visual inspection of the filter housing, surrounding pipework and the area beneath the filter for any sign of diesel staining or wetness. Suspension wear is another priority given the high mileage, so listen for clonks or knocks from the front over speed humps and uneven surfaces, check for uneven tyre wear which can indicate worn wishbone bushes or track rod ends, and inspect the underside for any corrosion to subframe mounting points, brake lines and the exhaust system. A final roadworthy pass is a positive indicator, but the repeated handbrake failures, the high mileage profile and the specific mechanical faults previously recorded all justify a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified commercial vehicle technician.