2014 CITROEN C41.6L Diesel

The 2014 Citroën C4 has demonstrated an unstable roadworthiness pattern over the past two years, with two consecutive failures in June 2024—just 11 days apart—despite no recorded defects on either test. This suggests either a procedural oversight in the testing process or a vehicle that narrowly avoided serious failings on both occasions. The most recent failure, dated 19 June 2024 at 118,388 miles, indicates the car has not yet been retested since then, placing it nearly two years out of compliance with current MOT requirements. The absence of defects in either failure suggests the vehicle may have passed had the tester identified more subtle issues, but this does not guarantee it is free from hidden mechanical concerns. The mileage progression reveals a steady accumulation of approximately 9,866 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. However, the gap between the last passing test (May 2023 at 101,124 miles) and the first failure (June 2024 at 118,377 miles) spans 13,253 miles—an unusually long interval for a car approaching its 12th year. This extended period without an MOT test raises questions about whether the vehicle was regularly driven or if it sat unused for extended periods, potentially accelerating wear on components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers. Given the lack of defects in past failures, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of high-wear areas that often fail silently or degrade over time. Focus on the suspension system, particularly the condition of rear suspension bushes and coil springs, as these are common failure points in vehicles of this age and mileage. Binding or unevenly worn brake calipers, particularly on the rear, should also be checked, as this Citroën model has been known to develop issues with brake binding over extended periods. Structural integrity is another critical area—inspect the wheel arches, sills, and subframe for corrosion, as rust can compromise the vehicle’s load-bearing capacity. Finally, verify the integrity of the exhaust system, especially around the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors, as these components frequently fail in older Citroën models and can trigger emissions-related advisories.