2002 CITROEN C52.0L PETROL

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile characterized by recurring mechanical failures that suggest reactive rather than proactive maintenance. While it passed its latest test on 11 December 2025 at 52,808 miles, the previous failure just one day prior reveals a history of neglected safety and mechanical defects. The trend is unstable, as issues such as seat-belt retraction, wheel bearing play, and exhaust leaks persist across multiple testing cycles, indicating that the owner only addresses faults necessary to secure a certificate rather than ensuring long-term reliability. The mileage pattern is exceptionally low for a 24-year-old Citroen C5, averaging approximately 2,200 miles per year. The vehicle moved from 49,001 miles in December 2023 to 52,808 miles in December 2025, a gain of only 3,807 miles over two years. While low mileage reduces wear on engine components, it often leads to the accelerated degradation of rubber components. The recurring perishing and cracking of tyres noted in both 2024 and 2025 are classic symptoms of a vehicle sitting stationary between use. A buyer must conduct a rigorous inspection of the suspension and braking systems. The record repeatedly flags corroded brake pipes and damaged anti-roll bar linkage dust covers, which point to potential hydraulic failure or steering-related instability. The slight play in the nearside rear wheel bearing identified in the 2025 test requires immediate verification to prevent future seizure. Furthermore, the history of coolant leaks onto the water pump noted in December 2024 suggests the cooling system is under stress, which is a significant risk for a low-mileage older vehicle where plastics have become brittle with age.