2017 Citroen Berlingo 1.6L Diesel · SC66 OUD

The Citroën Berlingo’s most recent MOT test on 1 April 2026 confirms it passed, though with a notable advisory on the near-side front suspension arm pin or bush, indicating progressive wear without immediate failure. This follows a failure just 24 days prior on 24 March 2026, where the same suspension issue was flagged alongside electrical faults (stop lamps, headlamp aim, and electronic stability control). While the vehicle cleared its test in April, the recurrence of suspension advisories—first noted in March 2025 and again in March 2024—suggests a persistent, unresolved wear pattern in the front suspension components. The trend is worsening rather than stable, particularly concerning the near-side lower arm bush, which has been consistently marked as de-bonded or worn across three consecutive tests. Electrical faults have also been intermittent, with stop lamps and registration plate lamps failing in multiple tests, implying either neglect or repeated repairs without full resolution. The recorded mileage of 96,299 miles at the latest test suggests average annual usage (~10,700 miles), which aligns with typical wear expectations for a nine-year-old vehicle. There are no significant gaps or spikes in mileage between tests, though the 174-mile increase between the March 2026 failure and pass suggests the vehicle was driven briefly after the failure before being repaired. The most recent MOT was conducted just three months ago, which is within the standard 12-month validity period, though the recurring advisories and electrical faults raise questions about whether critical issues were fully addressed between tests. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the front suspension, particularly the near-side lower arm bush and pin, as the repeated advisories indicate imminent failure risk. The rear suspension was not flagged in the latest test, but the 2025 advisory for the near-side rear bush warrants verification. Electrical systems—stop lamps, registration plate lamps, and headlamp aim—have proven unreliable, so testing all lighting circuits and the electronic stability control system is essential. Finally, the 2024 mention of edge-worn front tyres suggests tyre rotation or alignment may have been overlooked; checking tread depth and alignment angles is advisable to avoid sudden tyre failure. Structural corrosion or frame damage was not recorded, but a thorough underbody inspection remains prudent given the vehicle’s age.