2012 Citroen C3 1.6L Diesel · AD12 AEY

The vehicle currently holds a valid MOT following a pass on 4 July 2025 at 70,230 miles. The maintenance trend shows a pattern of reactive repairs rather than proactive upkeep. While the most recent test recorded no defects, the vehicle failed just two days prior on 2 July 2025 due to inoperative lighting, windscreen washer failure, and incorrect headlamp aim. This suggests that while the car is technically roadworthy now, the owner tends to address faults only when they trigger an inspection failure. The recorded mileage of 70,230 miles over a 14-year period indicates an average annual usage of approximately 5,016 miles. This is notably low for a vehicle of this age, which often correlates with less mechanical wear on the drivetrain. However, the history reveals a recurring issue with tyres perishing or sustaining structural damage, specifically seen in the August 2023 failure where all four tyres had tears or structural separation. Such patterns often suggest the vehicle sits stationary for extended periods, leading to rubber degradation and sidewall cracking. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the exhaust system and suspension components. The tester flagged defective exhaust mountings and silencer corrosion in 2021, 2022, and 2024, indicating a persistent issue with the exhaust's structural integrity. Furthermore, the August 2024 test identified a track rod end ball joint with play alongside worn brake discs and thinning pads. Although these were addressed to secure the subsequent pass, the recurring nature of the exhaust and the previous steering component wear warrants a thorough physical inspection of the underside for corrosion and play in the steering linkage. The windscreen also presents a chronic issue, with damage noted in 2023 and 2024. While these were deemed not to adversely affect the driver's view, the frequency of the fault suggests a lack of attention to minor exterior maintenance. Given the low mileage and the history of perished rubber, an inspection of the battery health and all fluid levels is advised to ensure the vehicle has not suffered from neglect during periods of inactivity.