2016 Citroen C3 1.2L Petrol · AX65 ESO

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Citroën C3 recorded a passing result on 2025-09-04, though it followed a failed inspection two months prior, indicating some inconsistency in the vehicle’s condition. The pattern of advisories—particularly around front brake discs and pads—suggests a gradual but persistent wear issue that has not yet escalated into a dangerous failure, though the 2023 test revealed pads worn to the critical 1.5mm threshold, which would have been a mandatory failure. The presence of multiple near-exhaustive tyre wear advisories over several years also points to either aggressive driving habits or prolonged periods of underutilisation, which can accelerate tyre degradation. While the overall maintenance trend is not outright deteriorating, the recurring advisories—especially those related to brakes and suspension components—demand closer attention to ensure they do not progress to more severe mechanical or safety concerns before the next MOT. The vehicle’s mileage of 111,375 miles over roughly ten years represents an average annual usage of around 11,138 miles, which is on the higher end for a ten-year-old car but aligns with typical driving patterns for many owners. The lack of extreme mileage spikes suggests the car has not been subjected to excessive wear from high-mileage conditions, but the consistent advisories on tyre wear—particularly the near-exhaustive wear on the near-side rear and front tyres—may indicate either inconsistent driving practices or prolonged periods of stationary use, which can lead to uneven tyre degradation. The front brake system’s history, with discs and pads consistently nearing or reaching critical thresholds, suggests regular braking demands have contributed to this wear, warranting a closer inspection of braking efficiency and potential thermal damage to discs or pads. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front brake system, suspension components, and tyre condition. The advisories on front brake discs being worn but not excessively should be treated as a warning sign; the pads were at the dangerous threshold in 2023, so the discs may be approaching similar wear. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a grinding noise when braking, or signs of brake fluid overheating, which could indicate thermal warping or glazing of the discs. Additionally, check for any binding or excessive play in the front suspension, as the near-side front lower suspension arm pin or bush advisory from 2023 suggests potential wear in these components. Inspect the front exhaust mounting and any visible leaks, as the minor exhaust defects noted in 2025 could lead to increased emissions or structural instability if left unaddressed. Finally, verify the tyre tread depth is above the legal minimum and look for signs of uneven wear or sidewall damage, which could indicate alignment or suspension issues. Beyond the mechanical checks, consider a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s structural integrity, particularly if it has been stationary for extended periods, as standing cars can develop corrosion in wheel arches, undercarriage components, and brake systems. Check for any signs of rust on the wheel wells, suspension mounts, or exhaust system, as these can compromise the vehicle’s long-term reliability. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, also verify that the service history is up to date, especially for fluid servicing—such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—which can degrade over time regardless of mileage. Ensure the 12V battery is in good condition, as older cars may struggle with electrical systems if the battery has been dormant for prolonged periods. Lastly, confirm that the windscreen damage is not a recurring issue that could affect visibility or structural integrity, and consider whether the registration plate lamp failures are a one-off issue or a persistent problem that may require electrical system attention.