2012 Citroen Relay 2.2L Diesel · YY12 HHX

The most recent MOT record for this 2012 Citroen Relay indicates a pass with no defects recorded in July 2023, which follows a failure in June 2023 regarding a non-functional fog lamp and a tyre with structural cord damage. While the most recent result is clean, the broader maintenance trend suggests a history of reactive rather than preventative upkeep. The vehicle has frequently struggled with lighting compliance and tyre integrity, and there is evidence of significant mechanical neglect in the past, specifically regarding a dangerous parking brake failure in 2022. Although the immediate status is passing, the intermittent nature of these failures suggests that while the vehicle is currently roadworthy, the owner has historically addressed issues only when they reached the threshold of an MOT failure. With 158,346 miles recorded over approximately 14 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 11,310 miles per year. This represents typical usage for a commercial van of this age and suggests it has not been subject to extreme high-mileage heavy-duty cycles, nor has it been left to sit idle for extended periods. However, at this mileage, the mechanical components are well into their natural wear lifecycle. You should expect higher levels of component fatigue in the drivetrain, turbocharger, and heavy-duty suspension elements. The consistent mileage accumulation implies that the vehicle has been used regularly for its intended purpose, meaning wear on consumables like clutches, brake discs, and suspension bushes is a primary concern. A critical area for inspection is the braking system and suspension. The MOT history shows a recurring pattern of brake-related issues, including significantly worn rear discs and a dangerous parking brake efficiency failure in 2022. During your test drive, pay close attention to the pedal feel; any sponginess, pulsation through the pedal, or a shuddering sensation under braking could indicate warped discs or sticking calipers. Furthermore, the history notes several advisories regarding worn suspension arm bushes and leaking shock absorbers. You should listen for knocking or clunking noises when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as these are classic symptoms of perished rubber bushes or failed damping units, which can negatively affect steering precision and tyre wear. Finally, you must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the tyres and lighting. The records show repeated issues with tyre perishing and structural damage, so check the sidewalls of all four tyres for any signs of cracking, bulging, or uneven tread wear which could indicate incorrect inflation or alignment issues. Given the history of lighting failures, specifically the rear fog lamp, ensure all bulbs and housing seals are intact to prevent moisture ingress. Because this is a commercial vehicle that has seen steady use, also verify the service history to ensure that fluid changes, particularly engine oil and coolant, have been performed on a calendar basis rather than just by mileage, as age-related degradation of fluids can lead to premature engine component wear.