2014 Citroen Berlingo 1.6L Diesel · SF14 XCO

Front suspension wear is the defining mechanical story of this 2014 Citroen Berlingo. The April 2026 test initially failed on four major items: a fractured nearside front coil spring, excessive play in the offside track rod end ball joint, an excessively worn nearside front suspension arm front bush, and an inoperative offside front position lamp, with thin offside rear brake pads also noted. The vehicle was retested and passed the same day, indicating these items were rectified, but the same pattern appeared a year earlier: the April 2025 test failed on parking brake faults, with the parking brake inoperative on one side and efficiency below requirements, plus an offside rear service brake binding and a wiper not clearing the screen. That 2025 failure was also rectified the same day. The 2024 test was clean, so the record shows a vehicle that has needed meaningful front suspension and brake work at each of the last two annual tests rather than one passing without intervention. Recorded mileage stands at 77,386 miles over roughly twelve years, averaging about 6,449 miles per year, which is typical for the age. The annual test dates are consistently in April with no gaps or periods off the road evident, so there is no indication of extended storage. At this moderate accumulation rate, the wear seen is consistent with normal use rather than abuse, but the failures recorded show that age-related deterioration of suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake components is now a live consideration on this vehicle regardless of the modest mileage. On a test drive, pay close attention to the front suspension given the spring, track rod end, and control arm bush failures. Listen for knocking or clonking over bumps and uneven surfaces, which would suggest further bush or ball joint wear beyond what was replaced. Check that the steering tracks straight without pulling and that there is no play or vagueness at the wheel, and inspect the front tyres for uneven shoulder wear that could indicate remaining geometry or joint issues. Confirm the replacement coil spring was fitted as a pair or at least that ride height is even side to side. The brake history also warrants scrutiny. The offside rear pads were flagged as wearing thin at the latest pass, so ask whether they have since been replaced and check the rear discs for lipping or scoring. Given the 2025 parking brake failure and binding rear brake, test the handbrake on a slope to confirm it holds firmly and evenly, and after a drive feel both rear wheels for excess heat that would suggest a caliper still binding. Finally, verify the offside front position lamp and wipers operate correctly, and budget for continued suspension and brake attention as the vehicle ages.