2009 Citroen C-Crosser 2.2L Diesel · FV59 JCU

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Citroën C-Crosser was conducted on 2025-11-17, resulting in a pass despite several persistent advisories and a minor defect. While the vehicle passed this inspection, the recurring issues—particularly the near-side front suspension ball joint dust cover deterioration, oil leaks, excessive steering rack play, and worn brake discs—suggest a pattern of wear that has not been fully addressed. The fact that the vehicle failed in 2025 with a major defect (offside rear coil spring fracture) indicates that the suspension and structural integrity are areas of concern, with the latter potentially linked to underlying corrosion. The fact that the same advisories recurred in multiple previous MOTs, including in 2023 and 2022, implies that the owner may have been neglecting critical maintenance, leaving the vehicle vulnerable to further mechanical failure unless proactive repairs are undertaken. The recorded mileage of 165,851 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a reasonable annual usage rate of around 9,756 miles per year, which is typical for a car of this age and class. However, the MOT history reveals inconsistencies in maintenance, with some tests passing despite ongoing advisories and others failing due to major issues like the coil spring fracture. The presence of multiple advisories—such as brake disc wear, oil leaks, and steering system play—suggests that the vehicle has been driven with some degree of neglect, particularly in suspension and braking components. The significant gap between the 2024 MOT (which passed cleanly) and the subsequent failures in 2025 indicates that either the vehicle was driven heavily between inspections or that the previous pass was misleadingly clean. This could imply accelerated wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems, warranting closer attention to fluid levels and component health. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the suspension and braking systems, as these have shown persistent issues. The near-side front ball joint dust cover deterioration and oil leaks suggest that the ball joints and steering rack are failing, which could lead to steering instability or alignment problems. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the steering system, particularly clunks or rattles when turning, and check for excessive play in the steering wheel. The advisories regarding excessive steering rack play and oil leaks indicate that the vehicle may have binding or worn components, which could cause handling issues or even a loss of control if not addressed. Additionally, the worn and pitted brake discs—especially the rear ones—demonstrate that the braking system is under significant stress, with potential for reduced stopping performance or uneven wear if not serviced soon. Inspect the brake pads for thickness and listen for grinding or squealing noises, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact if the discs are severely worn. Beyond the mechanical concerns, the vehicle’s underside corrosion and the history of brake pipe corrosion further highlight the need for thorough inspection. Corrosion beneath the chassis, particularly in areas prone to moisture exposure, can compromise structural integrity and lead to leaks or failures in critical components. Visually inspect the underside for rust progression, especially around wheel arches, exhaust systems, and suspension mounts, as this can indicate long-term neglect. The rear brake pipes corroded and covered in grease suggest that the braking system may have been exposed to moisture or improper maintenance, which could result in brake fluid contamination or system failure. Finally, given the age and mileage, consider checking the tyre condition for signs of perishing or cracking, particularly on the sidewalls, as this can compromise tyre safety. Also, verify the 12V battery health, as older vehicles of this age often struggle with electrical systems due to battery degradation or alternator issues. Ensure that all fluids—brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil—are at the correct levels and not showing signs of degradation, as fluid age can significantly impact performance and longevity. If possible, obtain a service history to confirm that scheduled maintenance, such as brake servicing and suspension checks, has been completed.