2008 Citroen Dispatch 2.0L Diesel · WD57 FTA

The Citroen Dispatch currently holds no valid MOT certificate, having failed the test on 10 April 2026 at 138,891 miles. No defects were recorded on that failure, which typically indicates the examiner could not complete the test, possibly due to an inability to open the bonnet, a major fluid leak presented at the station, or the vehicle being refused for a procedural reason rather than a confirmed mechanical fault. The maintenance trend over the preceding years is broadly stable. The van passed cleanly in August 2022 at 136,862 miles and again in August 2021 at 133,054 miles, with no advisories or failures noted on either pass. Both 2022 tests occurred on the same day at the same mileage, suggesting a retest following a minor initial failure that was quickly resolved. The 2021 pattern mirrors this, with a failure on 27 July at 133,051 miles followed by a pass on 3 August at 133,054 miles, indicating only a trivial three-mile difference and a swift rectification. There is no evidence of recurring mechanical or structural defects across the recorded history. The mileage progression tells a consistent story. Between the August 2021 pass at 133,054 miles and the August 2022 pass at 136,862 miles, the van covered 3,808 miles over twelve months. From August 2022 to the April 2026 failure, the mileage increased by just 2,029 miles over nearly four years, averaging roughly 500 miles per year. This sharp drop in annual mileage suggests the vehicle saw very light use or prolonged periods of standing in the most recent period. The overall average of approximately 7,716 miles per year across eighteen years is typical for a commercial van of this age, but the recent low-mileage phase raises its own concerns. Vehicles left standing for extended periods can develop deteriorated rubber components, corroded brake circuits, and fuel system issues that do not appear on a defect-free MOT record. A buyer should approach the April 2026 failure with caution and establish exactly why no defects were recorded. Request confirmation from the seller of the reason for the failure and whether a retest has been carriedaged. Inspect the bonnet catch, fluid levels, and any visible leaks before purchase. Given the recent ultra-low mileage, check all rubber suspension bushes, brake hoses, and tyre sidewalls for perishing caused by age rather than wear. Examine the underside for corrosion, particularly around brake lines, the exhaust system, and structural mounting points, as standing vehicles often suffer from moisture ingress in these areas. The clean MOT history is encouraging, but the current unroadworthy status and the unexplained failure demand a thorough in-person inspection before any commitment.