2020 Citroen C3 Flair + Puretech S/S 1.2L Petrol · WG20 AAU

The most recent MOT on 17 June 2025 was a pass, but it carried several advisories concerning a nail in the nearside rear tyre, a nail in the off‑side rear tyre and front brake disc wear. The preceding test on 16 June 2025 had failed on the same tyre issues, an off‑side rear tyre bulge and critically thin front brake pads. The fact that the vehicle was re‑tested and passed the following day indicates that the immediate safety‑critical faults – the pad thickness and the tyre bulge – were addressed, but the persistence of tyre‑related advisories and ongoing brake disc wear shows that the maintenance trend is only marginally improving rather than fully stabilising. At six years old the recorded 25 829 miles works out to roughly 4 300 miles per annum, which is well below the typical UK average. Such low annual mileage often points to periods of limited use or prolonged storage, which can be gentler on wear items such as the engine, transmission and suspension but can also allow age‑related deterioration to set in. Components that rely on regular movement – for example the brake pads, tyres and battery – may have suffered from lack of heat cycling, leading to surface glazing on the pads, rubber hardening in the tyres and possible sulphation of the battery plates. Conversely, the low mileage means that major wear items such as the clutch, timing belt or drive shafts are likely to have accumulated relatively little mechanical fatigue. When inspecting the vehicle, pay particular attention to the tyre condition. Examine the nearside rear and off‑side rear for any signs of nail punctures, cuts or bulging that could indicate internal ply damage, and verify the tread depth on all four tyres with a gauge, ensuring none are below the legal 3 mm limit. Look for uneven wear patterns that may reveal mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes or damaged coil springs. The front brake pads were recorded at less than 1.5 mm on the failed test, so they must be replaced; listen for any squeal or shudder under braking and feel for a soft or spongy pedal, both of which would suggest the discs are approaching the end of their service life and may need resurfacing or replacement soon. Given the vehicle’s age and relatively low use, a thorough visual and tactile inspection of the chassis for corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and under‑body, is advisable. Test the 12 V battery with a load tester to confirm it can hold charge, as standing periods often lead to sulphation. Check that engine oil, brake fluid and coolant have been changed in line with the manufacturer’s calendar intervals – fluid discoloration or a milky appearance in the brake fluid would indicate moisture ingress. Finally, review the service book for regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain service, and confirm that any work carried out after the June 2025 failure was properly documented before completing the purchase.