2007 Citroen C4 1.4L Petrol · EX57 AAE

The most recent MOT test dated 11 December 2025 resulted in a pass, although a corresponding failure was issued on the same date and subsequently rectified. The failure related to a nearside front headlamp not functioning on dipped beam, classified as a major defect, alongside a minor defect concerning an inoperative offside rear registration plate lamp. Both items were addressed prior to the pass being issued, which is reassuring. However, recurring advisories are present across the 2024 and 2025 tests, suggesting an evolving rather than improving maintenance profile. The oil leak advisory, originally noted in late 2023 as emanating from the oil filter housing and now recorded as a general advisory without excessive seepage, indicates a persistent but slow seep that warrants monitoring. Steering component wear in the form of track rod end ball joint play and steering rack inner joint play was flagged in late 2024 and may have progressed. The pattern of advisories shows a vehicle accumulating age-related wear rather than deteriorating rapidly, though the repetition of tyre perishing advisories on the offside front and rear across consecutive tests suggests a specific concern that has not yet been fully resolved. The recorded mileage of 122,527 miles over approximately 19 years equates to an annual average of around 6,449 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and suggests consistent but moderate usage. There are no significant gaps in the MOT testing record that would imply long periods of standing, which reduces the risk of severe underbody corrosion, seized brake calipers, or degraded fluid systems from inactivity. The mileage accumulation appears steady between tests, indicating the vehicle has been in regular service, which generally promotes healthier mechanical condition of seals, gaskets, and drivetrain components compared to low-use or stored examples. Nevertheless, at this accumulated mileage, wear-related replacement of major service items such as suspension bushes, anti-roll bar links, and exhaust mounting points should be anticipated regardless of MOT outcome. A prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the recurring tyre perishing advisory on the offside front and rear. Although classified as slight damage or cracking at the last test, tyre sidewall perishing progresses with age and UV exposure independently of tread depth, and a vehicle of nineteen years is at notable risk of age-related rubber degradation. Inspect all four tyres closely for hairline cracks in the sidewalls and between tread blocks, and consider replacement proactively even if tread remains adequate. The oil leak advisory from the oil filter housing area should be inspected on a level surface for fresh seepage around the filter housing, sump, and cam cover gaskets. While not currently excessive, neglect could lead to running the engine with low oil, accelerating wear to the timing chain, turbo, or internal bearings if applicable. During a test drive, listen carefully for any clunking or knocking from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly given the track rod end and steering rack inner joint play advisories from late 2024. Excessive free play in these components manifests as vagueness in steering response, uneven or feathered front tyre wear, and potentially an MOT failure if movement has increased. Inspect the offside rear lower suspension arm bush condition, which was flagged as worn in 2023, as deteriorated bushes typically produce a clonking noise on acceleration or over bumps and can affect rear wheel alignment. Given general underbody corrosion noted in 2023, a thorough inspection on a ramp is strongly recommended to assess structural integrity, floor pan condition, and brake line corrosion, particularly around the rear brake hose ferrules. Finally, verify the service history for regular replacement of brake fluid, coolant, and timing belt or chain service intervals, as calendar-aged fluids and neglected timing components remain common failure points on high-mileage French vehicles of this vintage, and confirm the operation of all exterior lighting including the headlamp and registration plate lamps previously flagged.