Should I buy Citroen Berlingo with a clunky back end?

[BenS123]

Hi Everyone,

I'm trying to buy a small van and just went to see a 2011 Citroen Berlingo today. It mostly seemed good (my budget's not big (£3k) so it's got a fair few miles on the clock and I know I'll be taking a risk with whatever I buy due to age and mileage). The dealer seemed honourable and like he knew what he was talking about. It drives well.

The only thing is this clunking noise from the back. I noticed it more when driving slower, though that could be to do with the background noise. He told me it's just the rear axle torsion bar and that it's just because there wasn't weight in the back of the van and that the noise would disappear when there was weight in the back of the van. How concerned should I be?

Also, he's got some other 2011 Citroen Berlingos in the yard that are double the cost. He tells me that's the case simply becuase they are the more modern body, where as the one I've looked at is the older square body - apparently there were a few years where they overlapped production and the old one is valued much lower. My fear is that the one I've looked at is there at reduced cost because of the clunking noise.

Any advice gratefully received. Just trying not to buy something which will cost me loads of money, even though I know buying an older van is always going to cost you a bit each year.

Thanks, Ben

[Gibbo2286]

My advice to vehicle buyers is, If you're not sure or not knowledgeable get a competent mechanic to look it over before you buy, any honest dealer will be happy with that.

[wheeler]

He told me it's just the rear axle torsion bar and that it's just because there wasn't weight in the back of the van and that the noise would disappear when there was weight in the back of the van.

A mk3 Berlingo has coil springs at the rear, not a torsion bar.

Ask to test drive on of the other ones he has without a load & see if it makes the same noise.

[BenS123]

Thanks for your thoughts folks, I've decided not to buy it and keep looking.

I'll pay someone to look over the thing I find, just want to try not to waste money getting someone to look over something with a known issue!