2006 Citroen C3 1.6L Diesel · AX06 KOU

The2023‑08‑22 MOT at 98,761 miles marks the vehicle as failed, with the most recent evidence of worsening condition: the near‑side rear suspension mounting is excessively corroded, reducing structural strength, and the off‑side front shock absorber shows light oil misting. Earlier tests at 95,189 miles in August 2022 recorded the same mounting corrosion covered by underseal and similar shock‑absorber oil misting, while the 2022 test also noted non‑functional stop lamps. This pattern indicates a deteriorating maintenance record rather than improvement. Mileage has risen from 44,172 miles in July 2014 to 98,761 miles in August 2023, an increase of roughly 5,000 miles per year, which aligns with the vehicle’s 20‑year age but remains below the typical wear rate for a high‑mileage car. The intervals between tests are regular, with no extended periods of inactivity evident; the largest jump occurs between the 2020‑08‑05 test at 85,492 miles and the 2021‑08‑13 test at 90,060 miles, a gain of 4,568 miles, suggesting consistent use rather than long standing periods. A buyer should therefore concentrate on the recurring faults highlighted across the record. Inspection of the near‑side rear suspension mounting and the surrounding sill sections is essential to verify that structural rust has not compromised rigidity beyond the MOT’s 6.1.1(c)(i) assessment. The condition of both front and rear shock absorbers, including oil leakage and damping performance, must be checked, as must the rear brake assembly for the reported hydraulic cylinder leak, imbalance and worn components. Particular attention should be given to the structural integrity of the sills, the functionality of all stop lamps, and the overall state of the exhaust and parking brake, which have been flagged in earlier failures. Although the vehicle’s low annual mileage suggests lighter use, the persistent corrosion, suspension mounting defects and brake system deficiencies point to inadequate attention to critical safety items. A thorough physical inspection, including a chassis integrity check and a road test of the braking and suspension systems, is required before any purchase decision can be made.