2013 Citroen Nemo 1.2L Diesel · SP63 GUX

The DVSA history for this 2013 Citroen Nemo presents a clean and stable roadworthiness profile, with no recorded advisories or component defects across the last four documented tests. The pattern shows passes at 2023-08-07, 2024-08-13, and 2025-08-14, interspersed with two earlier failures on 2023-07-25 and 2025-08-12 that also carry no defect entries against the vehicle. This is a noteworthy detail because a failed retest carried out within days and recorded with no defects strongly suggests that the earlier failures were administrative in nature, such as expired insurance or a missing previous test certificate, rather than mechanical failures of the vehicle itself. The absence of any corrosion advisories on the Nemo's known weak points, particularly the rear axle, suspension subframes, and brake pipe unions, is reassuring for a van of this age and commercial origin, and the unbroken run of clean passes points to a structurally sound and well-maintained example. With 93,040 miles recorded over a 13-year life, the Nemo has averaged roughly 7,157 miles per year, which sits comfortably within the typical range for a light commercial vehicle of this vintage and considerably below the annual mileage often seen on working Nemo fleets. This moderate usage figure is mechanically favourable, as it implies lower cumulative wear on the clutch, turbocharger (where fitted), timing belt, and dual-mass flywheel components that can be expensive to replace on small diesel vans. There are no unusual gaps in the testing record that would suggest a prolonged period off the road, which removes the usual concerns around seized brakes, perished fuel lines, and stagnant coolant that affect laid-up vehicles. The continuous testing pattern combined with the steady mileage accumulation indicates a vehicle that has been in regular, consistent use rather than one subjected to extreme stop-start urban abuse or long periods of inactivity. For a prospective buyer, the test drive should focus on the areas most prone to wear on a Nemo of this mileage and age, even though none have yet been flagged on MOT. Listen carefully for clonks or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly from the lower wishbone bushes and front anti-roll bar drop links, which are common wear items on this platform. The rear suspension should be checked for sagging coil springs, a known Nemo weakness that causes the vehicle to sit low at the rear and can lead to failed emissions or instability under load. On the move, the steering should be inspected for any vagueness or knocking at the front wheels, as the electric power steering rack and its mounting bushes can deteriorate with age, while the 1.4 HDi diesel engine should be checked for any timing chain rattle on cold start and for excessive smoke from the oil filler cap, both of which would indicate internal wear not yet captured in the MOT record. Brake performance should also be evaluated carefully despite the clean history. Test for any pulling to one side under firm braking, which can indicate a binding or seized caliper on the rear drums, a frequent issue on vans used for short urban journeys where the brakes rarely get hot enough to self-clean. The brake pedal should feel firm and progressive, with no sponginess or excessive travel, and the handbrake should hold the vehicle securely on an incline, as rear drum mechanisms on the Nemo are known to require periodic adjustment. Under the bonnet, inspect all coolant and oil hoses for signs of brittleness or weeping, pay attention to the condition of the auxiliary drive belt, and check for any diesel injector leak-back, which can cause rough running and black smoke. Finally, examine the load area floor and the rear wheel arches closely for any surface corrosion or previous poor repairs, as commercial Nemos often carry heavy items that can damage the structural metalwork over time.