2018 Citroen Berlingo 1.6L Diesel · WN68 TYX

The most recent MOT test for the 2018 Citroën Berlingo was conducted on 2025-09-08 and resulted in a passing grade, though it was accompanied by several persistent advisories that indicate ongoing wear and potential long-term concerns. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of recurring issues rather than a clear improvement or deterioration trend. While the latest test passed, the advisories—particularly regarding front brake disc wear, offside front suspension arm pin or bush wear, and nearside rear tyre low outer edge—suggest that the vehicle has not been fully maintained to prevent cumulative damage. The failure in 2025-09-08 for stop and position lamp failures highlights a broader electrical or wiring issue that may have been addressed but requires attention to avoid recurrence. The earlier failures in 2024 and 2023, including severe CV joint boot deterioration and rear brake binding, underscore that the vehicle has faced significant mechanical and functional challenges, warranting careful scrutiny before purchase. The recorded mileage of 157,067 miles for a vehicle aged eight years represents an unusually high annual usage rate of approximately 19,633 miles per annum, which is far above the average for its class. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads, tyres, suspension components, and drivetrain elements, as seen in the MOT history. The repeated advisories about front tyre wear close to legal limits and the severe CV joint boot deterioration suggest that the vehicle has undergone significant stress, likely from frequent or aggressive driving conditions. Additionally, the presence of rear brake pads with less than 1.5 mm of friction material in 2022 indicates that brake system maintenance has not been prioritised, leading to potential safety concerns. The absence of notable mileage gaps implies that the vehicle has been in active service, which may have contributed to the observed wear patterns rather than prolonged idleness. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the suspension, brakes, and electrical systems. The advisories regarding front brake disc wear and offside suspension arm pin or bush wear suggest that the suspension is showing signs of fatigue, with potential for increased clunking or uneven ride quality when driving over bumps. Listen for unusual suspension noises, particularly from the offside front, and check for excessive play or binding in the steering or wheel alignment. The CV joint boot deterioration recorded in 2023 indicates that the near-side front drive shaft’s seal has failed, leading to potential oil leakage or increased wear on the constant velocity joints. Inspect the boot for cracks or oil stains, and during a test drive, watch for whining noises from the front wheels when accelerating, which could indicate failing CV joints. Additionally, the rear brake binding advisory suggests that the service brake system may have lost effectiveness, so test the braking performance under load, paying close attention to pedal feel and response. If the brakes feel spongy or require excessive effort, further investigation into the hydraulic or mechanical components is essential. Beyond the mechanical checks, the buyer should also address the electrical issues highlighted in the MOT history, particularly the recurring stop and position lamp failures. These failures may stem from a faulty wiring harness, a failing lamp module, or a problem with the lamp test circuit. Test all external lights, including the dipped beam headlamps, stop lamps, and position lamps, ensuring they function correctly and that the bulbs are intact. The registration plate advisories, while not critical to roadworthiness, should be noted for cosmetic reasons and potential future legal compliance. Given the high mileage, the buyer should also verify the tyre condition beyond the legal limits, checking for sidewall cracks, perishing, or uneven wear patterns that could indicate underlying suspension or alignment issues. Finally, since the vehicle has been driven extensively, consider a comprehensive fluid check, including the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these fluids can degrade over time even with regular servicing. A 12V battery health test is also advisable, especially if the electrical system has been under strain from repeated MOT failures. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, a thorough service history review would be ideal, but if not available, prioritise addressing the immediate advisories and failures before proceeding with purchase.