2009 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · AV09 HSF

The vehicle most recently passed its MOT on 15 March 2024, though it initially failed on a position lamp. The overall maintenance trend appears reactive rather than proactive, as the history reveals a pattern of failures on basic lighting and recurring issues with drive shaft components. This suggests the vehicle has been maintained to a minimum legal standard to pass the annual test rather than being subject to a comprehensive preventative maintenance schedule. With 89,620 recorded miles over 17 years, the average annual usage is approximately 5,272 miles. This is significantly lower than the typical UK average, which often indicates a vehicle used for short urban trips or one that has spent extended periods stationary. While low mileage generally reduces wear on the engine and gearbox, it increases the risk of degradation for rubber seals, suspension bushings, and fluids, which perish over time regardless of the distance travelled. A primary area of concern is the drive shaft constant velocity boots, which show a persistent history of splits and deterioration on both the nearside and offside front joints. You must verify if these have been fully replaced or merely patched; if the boots have leaked grease or allowed grit to enter the joint, you will likely hear a rhythmic clicking or popping sound during tight, low-speed turns. Additionally, the 2022 records highlighted pitted brake discs and thin linings. During a test drive, feel for any shuddering under braking or a grinding noise, which would indicate that the discs remain scored or the pads are depleted. Given the low annual mileage and previous advisories regarding perishing tyres, a thorough inspection of all tyre sidewalls for hairline cracking is essential, as rubber hardens and loses grip with age. The 2023 exhaust emissions failure suggests the engine may suffer from carbon build-up due to infrequent long runs. You should verify the service history for calendar-based oil and coolant changes, as these fluids degrade chemically over time. Finally, inspect the brake calipers for binding and the 12V battery for health, as vehicles that stand for long periods are prone to seized components and electrical discharge.