2012 Citroen DS3 1.6L Diesel · KM12 AEK

The vehicle presents a roadworthiness status that is currently stable following a successful test on 15 October 2025 at 74,964 miles. This pass followed a significant failure just one week prior on 08 October 2025, which flagged multiple lighting defects, including a non-functioning high-level brake light and incorrect indicator colours, alongside serious tyre issues such as a sidewall cut and a structural bulge on the nearside rear. While the most recent record shows no defects, the frequency of failures in the preceding years suggests a reactive rather than proactive maintenance approach. The mileage pattern indicates low annual usage, averaging approximately 5,355 miles per year over its 14-year lifespan. This trend is consistent throughout the record, moving from 28,220 miles in 2015 to the current 74,964 miles. While low mileage generally reduces drivetrain wear, the history reveals that this vehicle may have spent periods stationary, as evidenced by recurring issues with perishing tyres and corroded components. The data is consistent and shows no unexplained gaps in testing or sudden surges in mileage. A prospective buyer should focus on the suspension and braking systems during a physical inspection. The record shows a recurring pattern of wear in the braking components, with pitted or scored discs noted in 2022 and 2023, and low pads flagged as far back as 2015. Suspension components also show a history of instability, including play in the track rod ends and ball joints in 2022 and 2023, and a fractured offside rear coil spring in 2021. The tester also flagged a split nearside front CV boot in 2023, so the integrity of the drive shafts should be verified. Corrosion and lighting maintenance also require scrutiny. The 2022 test identified a heavily corroded and weakened exhaust mounting, and multiple tests since 2016 have flagged inoperative registration plate lamps. Given the history of lighting failures and the recent 2025 failure involving multiple bulbs, a thorough check of the electrical system and all external light housings is necessary to ensure no further degradation has occurred.