2012 Citroen C3 1.6L Petrol · EN12 ABU

The vehicle presents a worsening maintenance trend characterized by recurring issues with braking components, tyres, and fluid leaks. While the December 2024 test at 81,770 miles resulted in a pass, the advisory list indicates several deteriorating elements. The tester flagged a binding offside front brake and noted that both front and rear brake discs are worn, pitted, or scored. An ongoing oil leak remains present, and the vehicle shows a consistent pattern of tyre neglect, with multiple tyres flagged as being near the legal limit or perished. The mileage profile indicates low annual usage, averaging approximately 5,800 miles per year over its 14-year lifespan. This low usage is evident in the jump from 64,160 miles in January 2019 to 71,622 miles in January 2020, followed by a steady but slow accumulation. While lower mileage often suggests less mechanical wear, the record shows that this vehicle likely suffers from age-related degradation. The presence of perished tyres and pitted brake discs suggests the car may sit idle for extended periods, allowing rubber to crack and metal surfaces to corrode due to lack of regular movement. A prospective buyer should focus heavily on the braking system and suspension. The history shows a long-term issue with rear brake components, including split gaitors and corrosion on the brake hose metal pipes flagged in 2021 and 2022. The recent report of a binding front brake suggests the calipers or sliding pins may require attention. The recurring advisories regarding shock absorber misting and the recent brake disc condition imply that the braking and damping systems are nearing the end of their service life. Further inspection of the engine bay is necessary to assess the severity of the non-excessive oil leak noted in both 2023 and 2024. Given the repeated advisories for tyres being worn on the edges or perished, a full check of the suspension bushes and alignment is recommended to ensure the wear is not caused by geometry issues. The exhaust system has also required repairs in the past due to broken mountings and silencer clamps, so the structural integrity of the exhaust hangars should be verified.