2016 Citroen C4 2.0L Diesel · AF16 KBV

The most recent MOT test for this 2016 Citroën C4 was conducted on 2025-10-03, resulting in a passing grade despite the presence of several advisories and minor defects. However, the vehicle’s MOT history over the past two years reveals a concerning pattern of recurring issues rather than a stable or improving maintenance record. The most notable failures and advisories—particularly those related to the front drive shaft constant velocity (CV) boots, exposed tyre cords, and severely worn brake pads—suggest that the vehicle has either been subjected to excessive stress or has been neglected in critical areas. The fact that the same CV boot failure was recorded in three separate MOTs (2024-06-06, 2025-09-19, and 2025-10-03) indicates a systemic weakness that may have gone unaddressed, potentially leading to further damage if not rectified promptly. The repeated exposure of tyre cords and near-legal wear limits further imply that the vehicle has either been driven at high mileage rates or has experienced prolonged periods of heavy or improper use, which accelerates wear on consumables like tyres and brakes. The recorded mileage of 85,952 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents an average annual usage of around 8,595 miles, which is on the higher end for a car of this age but not necessarily indicative of excessive wear if the vehicle has been maintained appropriately. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit evidence of service intervals or fluid condition checks, which could suggest either infrequent servicing or a lack of attention to preventative maintenance. The presence of multiple advisories related to tyre wear—including cuts and near-legal limits—could correlate with either aggressive driving practices or prolonged idling, both of which contribute to accelerated tyre degradation. Additionally, the repeated failures of the CV boots and brake components may reflect underlying issues such as poor lubrication, misalignment, or structural fatigue, particularly in a vehicle that has accumulated significant miles. It is important to note that while 85,952 miles is typical for a ten-year-old car, the combination of high mileage with repeated MOT failures suggests that the vehicle has likely been driven under conditions that have exacerbated wear and tear beyond what would be expected from normal usage alone. For the prospective buyer, this Citroën C4 presents a number of critical areas to inspect and address before purchase to ensure roadworthiness and long-term reliability. The most pressing concerns stem from the CV joint boot failures, which have been flagged multiple times as severely deteriorated or split, compromising the integrity of the drive shaft and risking contamination of the joint lubricant. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front wheels, particularly clunking or rattling when accelerating or turning, which may indicate a failing CV joint or misaligned wheels. Inspect the front wheel bearings for excessive play or grinding, and check for any oil leaks around the CV boots, which could signal impending failure. The exposed tyre cords and near-legal wear limits are also cause for immediate concern, as exposed cords indicate severe and irreversible tyre damage that compromises grip and safety. Replace these tyres immediately, as driving with exposed cords can lead to sudden blowouts or hydroplaning in wet conditions. Additionally, the brake system shows significant wear, with pads down to less than 1.5mm and discs showing severe thinning, which will require replacement to restore braking performance. Listen for a grinding or squealing noise when applying the brakes, which may indicate metal-to-metal contact between the pads and discs, and check for uneven brake pad wear or binding calipers that could cause brake shudder or reduced effectiveness. Beyond the mechanical concerns, the vehicle’s MOT history also highlights several non-mechanical issues that should be addressed. The nearside front fog lamp being damaged and non-functional is a straightforward electrical problem that can be easily replaced, but it is essential to ensure that all lighting systems are fully operational before use. The insecure rear bumper and body damage noted in previous MOTs suggest potential structural weaknesses or loose components that could affect the vehicle’s stability or safety in a collision. Inspect the rear bumper for sharp edges or loose fasteners, and check for any signs of impact damage that could compromise the vehicle’s structural integrity. Finally, given the vehicle’s age and mileage, it is advisable to conduct a thorough inspection of the engine bay and undercarriage for signs of fluid leaks, corrosion, or worn suspension components. Check the 12V battery for signs of corrosion or poor connections, as older vehicles are more susceptible to battery failure, especially if the engine has been left idling for prolonged periods. Additionally, verify that all fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and not showing signs of degradation or contamination, as fluid aging can lead to reduced performance and increased wear. If possible, obtain a service history to confirm that routine maintenance such as oil changes and fluid top-ups have been conducted according to manufacturer recommendations, particularly given the vehicle’s high mileage.