2012 Citroen DS3 1.6L Petrol · CA10 KAY

The Citroën DS3’s most recent MOT test on 2026-02-16, at 120,338 miles, confirms it remains roadworthy with no defects recorded. However, the history reveals a concerning pattern of repeated failures at the same mileage intervals—both the 2024 and 2025 tests show two attempts per year, each ending in a pass followed by an immediate fail at identical mileages. This suggests either a critical component failing predictably or a tester inconsistency, though the absence of recorded defects in the final passes implies the issues were minor or rectified between attempts. The latest pass, just five months old, aligns with the legal MOT validity period, but the repeated testing raises questions about whether underlying problems were addressed or merely masked. The vehicle’s mileage progression of roughly 8,596 miles annually over its 14 years is typical for its class, though the abrupt jumps between tests—from 95,483 to 110,901 miles in under a year—indicate either aggressive driving or extended periods without maintenance. The lack of intermediate MOTs or service records means there’s no transparency on how the vehicle was cared for between tests. Without service history, wear on high-mileage components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and drivetrain synchronisers cannot be reliably assessed. Given the repeated testing pattern, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension geometry, particularly rear bushes and ball joints, which often fail predictably in this model. The brakes, while not explicitly failed, should be checked for uneven wear or binding calipers, as repeated MOT attempts sometimes signal brake-related issues. Structural integrity is also critical—look for corrosion at wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, especially given the mileage. The engine bay should be examined for fluid leaks, as oil or coolant contamination can indicate worn seals or timing belt issues, which may explain the double-testing behaviour. Tyre condition and tread depth warrant immediate verification, as failing twice on this criterion would imply neglect.