2013 Citroen DS3 1.6L Diesel · RH03 AUG

The vehicle presents a worsening maintenance trend characterized by increasing frequency of mechanical failures and recurring component wear. While the most recent test on 14 April 2026 at 109,467 miles resulted in a pass, the tester flagged significant advisories regarding thin rear inner brake pads and a corroded offside rear coil spring. This follows a failed test earlier that same day where a loose Macpherson strut pinch bolt threatened directional stability. The progression from minor bulb failures in 2025 to more serious suspension and braking issues in 2026 suggests a decline in proactive preventative maintenance. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 8,400 miles per year over its 13-year lifespan. The record shows steady usage, with the mileage rising from 65,338 in January 2020 to 109,467 in April 2026. There are no significant gaps in the testing history that would suggest long periods of inactivity, though the increasing number of advisory items at higher mileages indicates that the vehicle is entering a phase where age-related wear on consumables and structural components is becoming more prevalent. A prospective buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the braking system and suspension geometry. The history shows a persistent pattern of worn brake discs and thin pads, with failures or advisories appearing in 2020, 2021, 2024, and 2026. The recent advisory for a corroded offside rear coil spring, combined with the previous failure regarding an insecure Macpherson strut, necessitates a close examination of all suspension bushes, dampers, and spring integrity to check for further corrosion or play. The recurring issues with lighting and wiper effectiveness in earlier years suggest that basic upkeep was occasionally neglected. While many of these were minor, the recent shift toward suspension and braking defects requires careful scrutiny. Inspect the underside of the vehicle for signs of structural corrosion and verify that all recent repairs, particularly those involving the Macpherson strut and braking components, have been completed to a professional standard.