2012 CITROEN C4 VTR HDI1.6L Diesel

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2026-02-02, at 99,528 miles, confirms it passed without recorded defects, though it failed the preceding test on 2026-01-09 at 98,936 miles—an unusually short gap of just 592 miles between failures. This suggests either a last-minute pre-test service or an oversight in addressing a minor issue that would typically have been caught earlier. The overall trend remains stable, with no recurring advisories or defects across five tests, but the recent failure raises caution about whether all critical components were thoroughly checked. The absence of defects in earlier tests implies consistent upkeep, though the abrupt failure warrants scrutiny of what may have been overlooked. The recorded mileage of 99,528 miles over 14 years reflects a steady average of approximately 7,109 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no extended gaps in mileage accumulation, nor are there periods of rapid wear, which would have been evident in larger jumps between tests. The most notable interval is between the 2022 and 2024 tests, where mileage increased by 9,115 miles in just over two years, yet the vehicle passed both without issue. This pattern suggests the owner maintained regular servicing, though the recent failure hints at potential neglect of a minor but critical component. Given the lack of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear bushes and coil springs, as these are common failure points in HDI engines and often lead to MOT failures if they exhibit excessive wear or corrosion. The brakes should also be thoroughly checked for uneven wear, binding calipers, or corrosion on the rear discs—common issues in older vehicles that may not always be flagged in a basic MOT. Structural integrity, especially around the wheel arches and sills, should be examined for signs of rust penetration, as this can compromise the chassis over time. Finally, the exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or excessive corrosion, particularly around the catalytic converter and downstream pipes, which are prone to failure in diesel vehicles of this age.