2012 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · YY12 HHW

The 2012 Citroen Relay passed its most recent MOT on 3 November 2023, although it carries a small cluster of minor defects and advisories that warrant attention. The contemporaneous advisories for nearside and offside rear brake binding are the most mechanically significant items on that pass, indicating caliper slider pins or mechanisms that are sticking under load, typically caused by corrosion, deteriorated guide seals, or retracted pistons that fail to return fully. A binding rear brake will cause excessive heat build-up, premature pad and disc wear on the affected side, uneven tyre scrubbing, and a noticeable drag or pulling sensation when pulling away, alongside potential fuel consumption increases. The minor windscreen and wiper defects are essentially housekeeping items, but the recurring presence of the nearside front windscreen wiper defect across multiple tests suggests the wiper linkage or motor may be worn, rather than simply the blade requiring replacement. With recorded mileage of 134,728 over approximately 14 years, this Relay is averaging around 9,623 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a working panel van of this age and consistent with steady commercial use. There are no obvious discontinuities or sudden mileage jumps in the MOT history, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular service rather than left standing for prolonged periods. Continuous use at this level is broadly favourable for mechanical longevity, as it keeps seals lubricated, prevents brake corrosion seizing, and maintains battery charge, but it does place predictable wear on suspension components, clutch and drivetrain, and brake friction materials at the higher end of their service intervals. The earlier MOT failure from 27 April 2018 is particularly relevant for assessing the maintenance trend, as the vehicle failed outright on front and rear brake pads being below the 1.5 mm wear limit. This was correctly rectified at the subsequent pass and the brakes were not flagged again until the 2023 binding advisories emerged, indicating that the friction material has been replaced since, but the caliper mechanisms themselves now warrant inspection. The 2017 advisory for an oil leak, combined with the 2018 advisory noting a minor exhaust gas leak, suggests that ageing gaskets, seals, or exhaust joints may still be present, and these typically worsen over time. On a test drive, listen for any ticking from the engine bay at idle that could indicate an exhaust manifold gasket weeping, and check underneath for fresh oil residue around the sump, cam covers, and any turbocharger if fitted. A firm brake pedal with no sponginess and even, straight-line stopping without pulling is essential to verify, alongside confirmation that the handbrake holds the vehicle securely on an incline. Given the age and mileage profile, a prospective buyer should also carry out age-related checks beyond the MOT record. Tyres should be inspected for both tread depth and, importantly, sidewall perishing or cracking from age-related rubber degradation, which can compromise integrity even with adequate tread remaining. Brake discs, particularly the rears where binding was observed, should be checked for lipping, scoring, or surface rust that has progressed into pitting, as standing overnight in damp conditions can accelerate corrosion that becomes dangerous under braking. The 12 volt battery should be load-tested, as commercial vehicles frequently suffer from repeated short cycles that shorten battery life, and all fluids including brake fluid, which absorbs moisture over time and should be renewed on a calendar basis irrespective of mileage, coolant, and gearbox or clutch fluid if applicable should be inspected for condition and age. Finally, request evidence of cambelt or timing chain replacement intervals in line with manufacturer schedules, verify full service history stamps, and pay particular attention to the rear brake calipers for free movement and even pad wear, as the recurring binding advisories indicate this is the most likely area of impending cost.