2013 Citroen DS4 1.6L Diesel · AF61 ADF

The most recent MOT test conducted in March 2026 resulted in a pass with no recorded defects, which is a positive indicator for the vehicle's current state. When evaluating the broader maintenance history, there is a clear trend of improvement following a significant failure in September 2023. That failure involved major issues with brake efficiency and a binding offside front caliper, alongside persistent advisories regarding steering rack inner joint play. The fact that the 2025 and 2026 tests show either resolved issues or no new defects suggests that the previous mechanical faults have been addressed, moving the vehicle from a period of declining condition into a more stable maintenance phase. The recorded mileage of 85,238 miles is well-aligned with the vehicle's thirteen-year age, representing an average annual usage of approximately 6,557 miles. This level of usage is considered moderate and typical for a private vehicle, suggesting that the engine and drivetrain have not been subjected to the heavy wear associated with high-mileage commercial or long-distance commuting use. While this lower annual mileage is generally beneficial for mechanical longevity, it does necessitate a closer inspection of components that can degrade due to age and inactivity rather than just mechanical friction. During your test drive, you must pay particular attention to the steering and braking systems to ensure the previous issues have been fully rectified. Regarding the steering, listen for any knocking or clunking sounds when turning the wheel at low speeds and feel for any vagueness or wandering sensation, which would indicate that the steering rack inner joints still possess excessive play. For the brakes, check for any pulling to one side under braking or a pulsating sensation through the pedal, which could signal warped discs or a recurring binding caliper. You should also inspect the front tyres for any signs of uneven wear, particularly on the inner or outer edges, as this can be a direct symptom of a sticking caliper or incorrect alignment resulting from steering component wear. Given the vehicle's age and moderate usage profile, you should also conduct a thorough physical inspection of age-sensitive components. Examine the tyre sidewalls for any signs of perishing or fine cracking, which can occur if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Check the brake discs for significant surface corrosion, especially on the inner rims, and verify that the service history includes time-based maintenance such as brake fluid and coolant replacements, rather than just mileage-based intervals. Finally, inspect the suspension bushes and coil springs for any signs of perished rubber or corrosion, as these components are prone to degradation over a thirteen-year lifespan regardless of the relatively modest mileage.