2009 Citroen Grand C4 Picasso 1.6L Diesel · AV59 VLJ

A clean and consistent DVSA record defines this 2009 Citroen Grand C4 Picasso, with no advisories or defects logged across four consecutive passes and a single failure that did not record any specific mechanical reason. The most recent test on 11 March 2026 returned a pass with no defects, and the preceding tests from 2023 through 2025 followed the same pattern. The 2023 failure, dated only four days before the pass, did not catalogue any component-level issues, suggesting either an administrative or procedural rejection that was quickly rectified, or a transient fault that did not re-present on the subsequent re-test. The absence of any recorded advisories over a five-year MOT window is unusual for a vehicle of this age, particularly given the known structural and suspension vulnerabilities of the Grand C4 Picasso platform, and points to either genuinely well-maintained condition or limited annual exposure to the deterioration typically flagged under test conditions. With 63,842 miles accumulated across roughly 17 years, the vehicle has covered an average of around 3,755 miles annually, which is notably low for its age class. Such restrained usage reduces wear on major drivetrain and engine components but can introduce separate concerns relating to prolonged stationary periods, including moisture ingress into braking systems, drying and cracking of rubber components such as suspension bushes, wishbone bearings, and driveshaft gaiters, and potential degradation of fluids and seals that rely on regular thermal cycling. The mileage progression between tests appears gradual and consistent with light, steady use rather than any long gaps in motoring activity, which is a more reassuring pattern than erratic mileage spikes or extended lay-ups followed by sudden increases. That said, a buyer should still treat the recorded figure with appropriate caution, as low-mileage Citroens of this generation can mask deferred maintenance that only becomes apparent under load or after a thorough inspection. Although the MOT history itself flags nothing for investigation, the Grand C4 Picasso is well known for issues that frequently appear outside of the standard test scope, and a prospective buyer should focus the inspection and test drive on the platform's typical weak points. The front suspension, particularly the lower wishbones, drop links, and anti-roll bar bushes, is a known wear area that should be assessed by pushing down firmly on each corner and listening for clonks or creaks over uneven surfaces. The electric power steering system on earlier Grand C4 models can develop faults manifesting as a temporary loss of assistance or warning messages, so any irregularity in steering feel, particularly at low speed or when parking, warrants close attention. The semi-automatic or traditional automatic gearboxes fitted to this generation can also exhibit hesitation or rough changes if fluid has not been regularly serviced, making a thorough warm-up test drive essential. Braking performance should be evaluated with specific attention to pedal feel, any pulling to one side under firm application, and the condition of the discs and pads, as low annual mileage often correlates with surface corrosion on discs that may not have been addressed. The underside of the vehicle deserves scrutiny for any corrosion around the subframe mounting points, rear axle beam, and brake and fuel lines, as these areas are notoriously vulnerable on C4 Picasso models of this vintage and can escalate quickly if protective coatings have degraded. On the test drive, listen for any knocking from the rear suspension over speed humps and rough tarmac, check that the climate control, electric windows, and central locking function correctly across all rows, and confirm that the parking brake holds the vehicle securely on an incline. A pre-purchase inspection by a specialist familiar with PSA platforms, including a lift to examine the underside and a diagnostic read of any stored fault codes, would be a prudent investment given the vehicle's age and the inherent complexity of its electronic and hydraulic systems.