2017 Mercedes-Benz Citan 1.5L Diesel · YB17 WJD

The most recent MOT test on the 2017 Mercedes-Benz Citan, conducted on 2026-01-27, returned a passing result with several persistent advisories that indicate ongoing but manageable issues within the vehicle’s steering and suspension systems. The pattern of recurring advisories—particularly the front steering rack inner joint play and offside front suspension ball joints—suggests a stable but not entirely resolved maintenance trend. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT in recent years, the consistent presence of these advisories, especially the steering rack free play and ball joint play, warrants closer attention. These issues typically develop gradually over time due to wear in the steering linkage and suspension components, which can lead to increased road noise, reduced steering precision, or even potential alignment problems if left unaddressed. The absence of any critical failures in the latest test suggests the vehicle remains roadworthy, but the advisories highlight areas where further investigation or maintenance is advisable to prevent escalation. The recorded mileage of 101,264 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 11,252 miles per annum, which is consistent with typical driving patterns for this model and its age. This level of mileage is neither exceptionally high nor low for a Citan, and it does not suggest either excessive wear from heavy use or prolonged inactivity that could accelerate deterioration. However, the presence of advisories related to tyre wear close to legal limits in 2020—particularly on the offside front tyre—indicates that the vehicle may have experienced uneven tyre usage or alignment issues at that time. The gap between the 2020 MOT and the subsequent tests suggests a period of either reduced use or potential temporary storage, which could have contributed to tyre degradation if not properly maintained. For a vehicle of this age and mileage, the wear on tyres and suspension components is expected, but the recurring advisories on ball joints and steering play may reflect underlying wear that could worsen with continued use. As a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination of this Mercedes-Benz Citan are the steering and suspension systems, given the persistent advisories. Begin with a thorough check of the steering rack and linkages for any signs of excessive play or unusual noises, particularly when turning the wheel at low speeds. Listen for clunking or rattling sounds from the suspension arms, ball joints, and track rods, which may indicate further wear or detachment of components. Inspect the front tyres for uneven wear patterns, lateral grooves, or signs of hydroplaning, as these can confirm whether the vehicle has experienced alignment or suspension issues. The steering wheel should be checked for binding or resistance, especially when turning in either direction, and the steering angle should be verified for any unintended drift. Additionally, examine the suspension for signs of corrosion, particularly around the ball joints and suspension arms, as standing for prolonged periods can accelerate rust formation. A test drive should include slow-speed manoeuvres to assess steering responsiveness and listen for any unusual noises from the suspension or steering components. For fluid servicing and general maintenance, the vehicle’s age and mileage dictate that time-based checks are essential, even if the MOT history has been clean in recent years. Given the nine years since manufacture, the coolant system should be inspected for signs of degradation or contamination, as prolonged exposure to heat can lead to sludge formation or corrosion within the radiator and hoses. The brake fluid reservoir should be checked for contamination or moisture, as this can compromise braking performance, particularly on older vehicles where seals may degrade. The 12-volt battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, especially if the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, as battery failure can lead to electrical system issues. Finally, a review of the service history book is recommended to confirm that routine maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and suspension component inspections, has been conducted according to the manufacturer’s schedule. If the service records are incomplete or outdated, consider scheduling a professional inspection to address the recurring steering and suspension advisories before proceeding with purchase.