2006 Citroen Xsara 1.6L Diesel · VN06 AHE

The vehicle presents a stable maintenance profile following a period of significant structural and mechanical concern. The most recent test on 20 November 2025 at 146,011 miles resulted in a clean pass with no defects recorded, mirroring the successful result from November 2024. This suggests that the previous issues regarding lighting and consumables have been addressed, and the vehicle has maintained a consistent standard of roadworthiness over the last two years. The mileage accumulation is consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 7,300 miles per year. The record shows steady usage without long periods of inactivity, which is evidenced by the regular annual MOT intervals. The progression from 84,209 miles in June 2015 to 146,011 miles in November 2025 indicates a predictable and typical driving pattern for a 20-year-old Citroen Xsara. A prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the vehicle's structural integrity. The November 2022 failure revealed significant corrosion to both nearside and offside outer sills, reducing the rigidity of the assembly. While the subsequent tests passed, the history of corroded brake pipes in 2021 and corroded brake hoses in 2020 indicates a recurring vulnerability to corrosion in the braking system and chassis. A physical check of the sills, floor pans, and brake lines is essential to ensure the previous structural issues have not regressed. The mechanical history also highlights recurring issues with steering and suspension components. The tester flagged play in the steering rack inner joints and track rod ends multiple times between 2015 and 2019, alongside an anti-roll bar linkage failure in 2022. Frequent advisories regarding worn tyres also suggest that consumable maintenance has occasionally been deferred. An inspection of the steering geometry, suspension bushes, and all tyre tread depths and sidewall conditions is recommended to confirm the current state of these wear items.