2018 Citroen C1 1.2L Petrol · PN18 OVG

The most recent MOT test completed on 12 August 2026 resulted in a pass with no recorded defects. While this is a positive recent outcome, the overall maintenance trend shows some volatility. The vehicle experienced a cluster of advisories in March 2026 relating to the braking system and a driveshaft oil seal, which suggests that while the car is currently meeting minimum standards, it has recently required or may still require mechanical attention to address wear and tear. The transition from no defects in 2024 to several advisories in 2025 and 2026 indicates a period where age-related component degradation is becoming more prevalent. With 50,859 miles recorded over eight years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 6,357 miles per year. This represents relatively light usage, which is typical for a small city car but carries specific mechanical implications. Lower annual mileage can often lead to components like brake calipers and parking brake mechanisms seizing or binding due to infrequent use and moisture accumulation. It also increases the likelihood of age-related degradation in rubber elements, such as tyres and suspension bushes, which may show signs of perishing even if the tread depth remains high. A prospective buyer must pay close attention to the braking system during a test drive. The March 2026 advisories regarding a binding nearside rear brake and insufficient parking brake efficiency suggest that the rear caliper or the handbrake mechanism may be sticking. Listen for any rhythmic scraping or grinding from the rear of the vehicle and feel for any uneven braking force or pulling to the nearside when applying the foot brake. You should also check for excessive heat coming from the rear wheels after a short journey, which is a clear symptom of a binding caliper. Additionally, inspect the nearside driveshaft area for any signs of fresh oil weeping or staining, as the previous advisory regarding the oil seal indicates a potential leak that could lead to more costly drivetrain issues if left unaddressed. Finally, conduct a thorough visual inspection of the tyres and the exhaust system. Given the history of perishing tyres, check the sidewalls of all tyres for fine cracks or signs of hardening, as these indicate the rubber is reaching the end of its safe service life regardless of tread depth. Examine the front brake discs for any significant scoring or heavy corrosion, and ensure the exhaust system is securely mounted without excessive movement or rattling, following the previous advisory regarding a broken rubber hanger. Verifying that these items have been professionally rectified is essential to ensuring the vehicle's long-term reliability.