2022 DS DS3 1.2L Petrol · AV22 HFL

A pattern of rear‑axle wear and a recent windscreen‑wiper deficiency defines this DS3’s MOT record; the 2026 test passed only after an off‑side wiper was found unable to clear the screen, while the same advisory on the nearside rear tyre and the off‑side rear brake disc re‑appeared from the previous failure. The 2025 MOT was clean, indicating that the tyre and brake‑disc concerns have emerged over the last twelve months rather than being longstanding issues. At 17,704 mi after just over four years the average annual accumulation is roughly 4,400 mi, well below the typical UK average for a similar‑aged hatchback. Such low usage generally reduces progressive wear on drivetrain and suspension components, yet it can also mean that tyres and brake discs have spent extended periods at low temperature, which may accelerate surface corrosion and promote uneven tread wear. The consistent March‑date MOTs show no testing gaps, suggesting the vehicle has been on the road regularly enough to avoid the pitfalls of prolonged storage. Prospective buyers should give the rear tyre a close visual and tactile inspection: verify that the tread depth exceeds the legal 1.6 mm across the width, look for edge‑wear patterns that could indicate mis‑alignment, and feel for any hard spots that might signal ageing rubber. The off‑side rear brake disc, flagged as pitted but not yet weakened, warrants measurement of disc thickness against the manufacturer’s minimum and a check for scoring that could cause brake pedal pulsation or reduced stopping efficiency. During a test drive, listen for any grinding or squealing from the rear brakes and note any change in pedal feel when applying moderate pressure. The windscreen wiper that failed to clear the screen should be examined for blade condition, motor operation and proper range of movement; a functional test of the wiper at low and high speeds will reveal whether the issue has been fully remedied. While the rest of the MOT history shows no further faults, a thorough pre‑purchase inspection focusing on the rear tyre, rear brake disc, and wiper assembly will confirm whether the advisories have been addressed and whether any imminent replacement is required before the next MOT.