2012 Citroen C-Zero Electric · SM62 HEV

The vehicle remains roadworthy but the maintenance history reveals a concerning trend of progressive oxidation and component degradation. While the most recent test in January 2023 at 53,159 miles noted heavy corrosion across the entire underside, the car remained structurally sound at that time. The recurring presence of corroded brake pipes and pitted discs suggests that while the car is meeting the minimum legal requirements, the underbody components are suffering from significant decline due to environmental exposure rather than mechanical use. The mileage profile is notably low for a 14-year-old vehicle, averaging approximately 3,800 miles per year. This low usage explains the delayed mechanical wear on consumables but creates a significant gap in the data. The last recorded MOT was in January 2023, meaning the vehicle is now over three years without an official safety check. The 4,912-mile interval between the 2022 and 2023 tests indicates very infrequent operation, which often accelerates the development of the corrosion issues identified in the 2019 failure. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the structural integrity, specifically the subframe and outer vehicle panels. The 2019 failure highlighted significant corrosion on the rear subframe and all coil springs, which evolved into heavy underside corrosion by 2023. Particular attention is required for the brake lines, as they have been flagged as corroded across multiple consecutive tests. These pipes represent a risk of sudden failure if the metal has thinned beyond repair. The braking system also requires scrutiny. The 2023 test flagged thin front pads and scored discs, alongside a damaged nearside front track rod end dust cover. Given the long period elapsed since the last test and the history of surface rust, there is a high probability that the noted corrosion has progressed to a point that may result in an MOT failure in the coming months.