2009 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · AV58 VGP

A clear and consistent pattern of corrosion-related advisories across the suspension and underbody components defines the mechanical character of this 2009 Citroen C4, with coil spring corrosion appearing in every recorded test since 2022 on both front and rear units. The December 2025 test resulted in a pass, but the advisory list confirmed the continuation of this trend, with nearside front and offside rear coil springs again flagged alongside a corroded front anti-roll bar. Earlier tests in 2024 and 2023 also recorded the same coil spring advisories, alongside deteriorating headlamp lenses, exhaust flexi leakage, and discoloured rear direction indicators. Two failures sit in the record: a December 2022 test failed on multiple lighting defects including inoperative offside stop lamps, position lamps, and direction indicators, plus both headlamps aimed too low, while the December 2023 test failed on a split nearside front outer constant velocity joint boot classified as a major defect. The accumulation of corrosion advisories over consecutive years points to progressive structural surface deterioration rather than isolated wear. Mileage accumulation has been broadly consistent with the vehicle's age, covering 134,230 miles over roughly seventeen years at an average of around 7,900 miles per year. There are no significant gaps in the testing history, with annual MOT entries recorded each year from 2021 onwards, indicating the vehicle has remained in regular use rather than being laid up for extended periods. This steady annual usage is broadly typical for a car of this age and suggests consumable wear on suspension bushes, brake components, and drivetrain parts has developed at a predictable rate. The continuity of testing also means the advisories reflect genuine year-on-year condition rather than catching up after a long period off the road. For a prospective buyer, the recurring coil spring corrosion advisories warrant close physical inspection, as continued surface corrosion on springs can eventually compromise structural integrity and lead to brittle fracture under load. Listen for clonking or knocking noises from the suspension over uneven road surfaces, and visually check the springs for advanced pitting, flaking, or any signs of cracking. The anti-roll bar corrosion noted in the most recent test should similarly be inspected for material loss, and the front end should be checked for any play in anti-roll bar drop links or bushes. The recorded split CV boot from 2023 was classified as a major defect, so the nearside front driveshaft should be carefully examined for any fresh grease contamination around the joint, and any clicking or vibration on full-lock turns would indicate renewed deterioration. The 2021 advisories regarding an oil leak, a slightly damaged nearside front brake pipe, and low coolant should not be overlooked during inspection. A brake pipe flagged as damaged must be checked for corrosion, weeping, or corrosion pitting along its length, as compromised brake lines are a safety-critical item. The oil leak warranting attention, even if previously assessed as not excessive, should be re-evaluated by checking undertray areas and engine seals for fresh residue. Coolant level should be verified with the system cold, and the header tank inspected for contamination or pressure-related signs. On test drive, pay particular attention to brake pedal feel for any sponginess indicating air ingress from a compromised line, steering response for any pull or vibration linked to the front suspension condition, and exhaust note for any re-emergence of leakage around the front flexi joint noted in 2024.