Tiny van-based MPV with surprising inner space
A van-derived micro MPV sold from 2009 to 2015 in Multispace passenger form, the Nemo is based on the Fiat Fiorino and offers surprising cargo versatility in a footprint smaller than a Berlingo. It suits buyers who need a practical workhorse for urban deliveries or tradespeople wanting a compact runaround.
We track 5 known issues across the Citroen NEMO range, with 4 classified as significant. Knowing which variants and configurations to approach with caution can save you from expensive surprises after purchase.
Found a Citroen NEMO? Enter the reg to see which of our 5 known issues apply to that exact car, plus full MOT history and mileage checks.
MK1 (2008–2019) — Petrol options included the 1.4i, 1.4i, with 1.2 HDi, 1.4 HDi, 1.4 HDi on the diesel side. We track 5 known issues on this generation, with 4 classified as significant. The most significant concern is Power steering fluid leaks and system failure (£350–£650 to address).
The hydraulic power steering system on Nemo diesel variants suffers from widespread seal failures in the pump and pressure lines. MOT data shows failure rates 93.5 times the fleet average for power steering malfunctions and 37.7 times average for low fluid levels. The system uses high-pressure hydraulic fluid that leaks from deteriorating seals, particularly around the pump housing and high-pressure connections. This is a documented weakness affecting both 1.2 and 1.4 diesel engines across all mileage bands.
Complete power steering failure makes the vehicle extremely difficult to steer at low speeds and dangerous in emergency manoeuvres. Pump replacement typically costs £400-800 plus labour. Continued operation with low fluid will destroy the pump and potentially damage the steering rack, increasing repair costs to £800-1500.
During the test drive, check the steering for excessive play, vibration or pulling to one side. Listen for groaning or whining when turning the wheel at low speed. Power steering fluid level and condition should be checked on hydraulic systems.
The rubber bushes supporting the shock absorbers deteriorate rapidly on the Nemo, with MOT data showing failure rates 62.6 times the fleet average. This affects all engine variants and appears across all mileage bands including very low mileage vehicles. The bushes are undersized for the vehicle's commercial use profile and deteriorate due to constant loading and unloading cycles typical of van operation.
Worn shock absorber bushes compromise vehicle stability, increase braking distances, and cause premature tyre wear. In severe cases, the shock absorber can separate from its mounting, creating a dangerous loss of suspension control. Bush replacement typically costs £200-400 per corner depending on location.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
Diesel variants suffer from severe DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) blockage issues, with MOT data showing smoke emission failure rates 104.1 times the fleet average on 1.4 diesel and 45.7 times average on 1.2 diesel engines. The DPF system becomes blocked due to short journey patterns typical of commercial use, preventing the high-temperature regeneration cycles needed to burn off accumulated soot particles.
A completely blocked DPF will trigger limp mode, severely reducing engine power and making the vehicle unsuitable for commercial use. Professional DPF cleaning costs £200-400, while replacement costs £800-1500. Continued operation with a blocked DPF can damage the turbocharger and engine.
Ask about the car's typical usage — short urban journeys prevent DPF regeneration. Check for DPF warning lights and ask about any previous regeneration issues. A forced regeneration at a garage costs far less than a DPF replacement.
The suspension pins, bushes and joints throughout the Nemo's suspension system wear prematurely, with MOT failure rates 38.3 times the fleet average for pin/bush/joint wear and 36.9 times average for general joint wear. This affects both front and rear suspension components and is particularly severe on vehicles used for heavy loading or frequent stop-start commercial patterns.
Worn suspension components compromise vehicle stability and safety, particularly under braking or cornering. Severe wear can lead to component failure and loss of control. Individual joint replacement typically costs £80-200 per component, but multiple components often require attention simultaneously.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
The anti-slip rubber covering on the brake pedal wears smooth or detaches completely, with MOT failure rates 36.7 times the fleet average. This is particularly problematic on commercial vehicles where drivers may wear work boots with smooth soles, creating a slip hazard during emergency braking situations.
Worn or missing brake pedal rubber can cause foot slippage during emergency braking, potentially resulting in reduced braking force or inability to brake effectively. This is a safety-critical MOT failure that prevents vehicle use until repaired. Pedal rubber replacement typically costs £10-30.
Check brake disc condition for lipping or scoring. Test braking at moderate speed for pulling to one side or vibration through the steering wheel. Review MOT advisories for brake-related items.
For the full breakdown of all 5 tracked issues with repair costs, see the Citroen NEMO common problems page.
Based on 87k real DVSA MOT tests, the Citroen NEMO fails more often than average on several items. The biggest outlier is power steering fault at 238x the fleet average, followed by light unit fault (187x).
When viewing a specific car, check its MOT history for recurring advisories in these categories. See the full Citroen NEMO MOT failure breakdown for data at every mileage point.
Routine servicing (oil and filter change every 13k miles) typically costs £60–£90 at an independent garage.
See the full Citroen NEMO service schedule for every interval and cost breakdown.
The Citroen NEMO is a solid choice on the used market, though not without its quirks. The issues we track are well-understood and largely avoidable if you know what to look for. A thorough inspection and complete service history go a long way. 2012-2015 models benefit from standard electronic stability control (missing on early cars) and improved reliability. The 1.3 HDi diesel is the engine to have for economy. Avoid the SensoDrive automated gearbox entirely — the manual is far more reliable.
Before committing, check the car's full MOT history, verify the service record is complete, and if possible arrange a specialist inspection. Enter any registration into our free report to see the complete picture.
Get Car Wise maintains a database of known mechanical issues for every popular car on UK roads, tracking the faults that owners, specialists and DVSA data reveal.
When you run a report on a specific Citroen NEMO, we cross-reference the exact variant, engine and age against our database of 5 known issues. Combined with full MOT history analysis, mileage verification and DVLA data, you get a complete picture before viewing.
Enter the registration for MOT history, mileage verification, known faults for that exact variant, and a Get Car Wise Score.
This guide was compiled from independent expert reviews, DVSA MOT data, specialist workshops and our own database of 5 known Citroen NEMO issues. We are not affiliated with any source listed.