2018 Mercedes-Benz Citan 1.5L Diesel · RE18 NKF

The most recent MOT test on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz Citan, conducted on 2025-11-12, resulted in a passing outcome with several persistent advisories, indicating ongoing but manageable mechanical concerns rather than outright failures. While the vehicle has passed the latest inspection, the recurring nature of the brake pad wear and tyre edge wear—particularly on the rear offside and nearside tyres—suggests a pattern that warrants closer attention rather than a clear improvement in maintenance stability. The presence of both advisory and major defects in previous tests, particularly around the rear brakes and registration plate lamps, reflects a trend where certain components are either underperforming or experiencing cumulative wear, which could escalate if not addressed promptly. The recorded mileage of 125,504 miles for a vehicle aged approximately eight years represents a high annual usage rate of around 15,688 miles per year, which is significantly above the average for its class and age. Such mileage accumulation is typical of vehicles in commercial or high-demand use, particularly in sectors like delivery, fleet operations, or heavy traffic environments, where consistent driving leads to accelerated wear on consumables such as tyres, brake pads, and suspension components. The absence of substantial mileage gaps between tests suggests the vehicle is in active service, which can accelerate the degradation of seals, gaskets, and fluid-based systems, as well as contribute to uneven tyre wear patterns and potential suspension component fatigue over time. For the prospective buyer, the advisories on brake pad wear and tyre edge wear necessitate immediate inspection of the rear brake system, particularly the offside and nearside components, to assess whether the pads are nearing or exceeding the legal minimum thickness. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal feel, excessive vibration or shuddering during braking, or signs of pulsation in the steering wheel, which could indicate warped brake discs or uneven pad wear. Additionally, check for any unusual noises from the rear axle or suspension, such as clunking or rattling, which may signal worn suspension bushes or coil spring issues. Given the high mileage and recurring tyre wear advisories, verify the tyre tread depth and sidewall condition for signs of cracking or dry rot, which can compromise safety and structural integrity. The rear registration plate lamp failure from previous tests should be rectified before purchase, as this is a critical safety feature. Beyond the immediate concerns, the buyer should also conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s fluid levels and condition, focusing on the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as high mileage and prolonged service can lead to fluid degradation. Check for leaks under the vehicle, particularly around the rear axle, brake assemblies, and exhaust system, which may indicate failing seals or components. Inspect the exhaust emissions system for any signs of corrosion, blockages, or excessive noise, as the Citan’s emissions controls are sensitive to wear and can fail if neglected. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, a comprehensive mechanical check should include examining the suspension for signs of excessive play or damage to control arms, struts, or anti-roll bars, as well as verifying the alignment and balance of all tyres to mitigate further wear and handling issues. If the buyer is concerned about the battery health, given the vehicle’s age and potential prolonged periods of inactivity, test the 12V system for voltage drop and ensure no parasitic drains are present.