2012 Citroen DS3 1.6L Diesel · KM12 AEL

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows signs of a worsening maintenance trend as it enters higher mileage. While the car passed its most recent test on 14 April 2026 at 135,225 miles, the tester flagged both front inner tyres as being worn close to the legal limit and noted an oil leak. Although the oil leak was described as not excessive, the presence of both tyre wear and fluid leaks suggests a shift away from the clean, defect-free results seen in previous years. The mileage accumulation remains consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 9,659 miles per year. The record shows steady usage, with a notable jump of 14,418 miles between the January 2024 and February 2025 tests. This consistent driving pattern explains the gradual wear on consumables, though the lack of defects in the 2025 test at 127,037 miles suggests a period of well-maintained upkeep that has recently lapsed. A prospective buyer should focus inspections on the suspension and drivetrain components. The history shows recurring issues with lighting and structural wear, such as the fractured offside front coil spring identified in January 2025 and the track rod end play noted in October 2020. The split drive shaft CV boot in 2020 further indicates that rubber components and joints are prone to failure on this vehicle. The recent oil leak and previous exhaust mounting corrosion require physical verification to determine if the issues are minor or indicative of deeper mechanical or structural degradation. Given the history of tyre issues and lighting failures, a thorough check of the current tyre tread, alignment, and all exterior bulb assemblies is necessary. The buyer should specifically inspect the underside for any signs of worsening corrosion around the exhaust system and engine seals.