2018 Citroen C4 Cactus 1.2L Petrol · CN68 ENC

The most recent MOT, carried out on 23 July 2026, was passed with no recorded defects, indicating that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the past two years the MOT record shows a consistent pattern of advisory items – notably light oil misting from the near‑side front shock absorber, corrosion of the rear coil springs, and a front‑disc wear advisory – but no repeat failures since the 2025 major failure for mismatched rear tyre sizes was rectified. This suggests that while the car’s overall maintenance has remained stable, there are a few wear items that have persisted and will require attention before they develop into safety‑critical faults. At 50,173 miles on a 2018 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 6,300 miles, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. The mileage progression appears smooth with no evidence of large, undocumented spikes that might hint at hidden high‑use periods. Consequently the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components is likely to be driven more by calendar age than by excessive distance, meaning age‑related degradation should be a primary focus during inspection. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front brake discs, which were flagged as worn, pitted or scored. Measure disc thickness against the manufacturer’s minimum specification and feel for any pulsation or shudder when applying the brakes, especially from higher speeds. The near‑side front shock absorber’s light oil mist is a sign of seal wear; listen for clunking or excessive bounce over bumps and check for any uneven tyre wear that could indicate reduced damping. The rear coil springs on both sides have been noted as corroded; inspect the spring mounts for rust, cracks or loss of spring integrity, and verify that the rear ride height is consistent and that the vehicle does not exhibit a sagging rear or a harsh ride. Ensure that the rear tyres are of the correct, matching size and have adequate tread depth, and look for sidewall cracking or dry rot, which is common on vehicles that have spent time standing idle. Even though the MOT history shows no current failures, age‑related checks remain essential. Examine the 12‑volt battery for terminal corrosion and test its cranking voltage, as batteries over eight years often lose capacity. Verify that all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – have been refreshed within the recommended service intervals, and look for any fresh oil seepage around the sump plug that was previously noted. Finally, confirm that the service book is up to date, that any outstanding recalls have been addressed, and that the interior child‑seat fittings are removed so the adult seatbelts can be fully inspected for wear or fraying. These steps will give a clear picture of the car’s mechanical health and any imminent maintenance that may be required.