2021 Citroen C4 Shine + Puretech S/S Auto 1.2L Petrol · CA71 ABK

The latest DVSA MOT test on the 2021 Citroën C4 PureTech occurred on 2025-09-23 and resulted in a failure, with the vehicle retaining a history of unresolved advisories and a pending Citroën recall. While the 2024 test was clean, the subsequent two tests show a pattern of recurring issues, particularly in the front suspension and seatbelt systems, indicating a lack of proactive maintenance or timely repairs. The advisories regarding the offside front seatbelt webbing and near-side front suspension arm ball joint play suggest that these components have either been neglected or are nearing a critical stage of wear, warranting immediate attention to prevent further deterioration or failure. The outstanding recall from Citroën further underscores the need for urgent action to address structural or safety-related concerns before the vehicle is put back into service. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 45,144 miles at the time of the latest MOT aligns closely with its age—approximately five years old—representing roughly 9,029 miles annually, which is within the expected range for a car of this class. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps or rapid accumulation over the past two years suggests consistent usage, which could accelerate wear on consumables like brakes, tyres, and suspension components. The front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint failure recorded in 2025 highlights how even moderate mileage can expose hidden wear in critical suspension elements, particularly if the vehicle has been driven over rough terrain or subjected to prolonged stress. The nail in the offside front tyre is also a notable concern, as embedded debris can lead to uneven tyre wear, reduced traction, or even blowouts, necessitating immediate inspection and potential replacement. Given the recurring MOT advisories and the pending recall, the buyer must prioritise addressing the front suspension ball joints and seatbelt webbing as a matter of urgency. The near-side front suspension arm ball joint play could lead to uneven tyre wear, reduced handling stability, and potential alignment issues, which may worsen with further driving. On a test drive, listen for clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly when negotiating bumps or turning sharply, and check for uneven tyre wear patterns or vibrations that may indicate misalignment. The offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint failure is particularly critical, as it compromises the vehicle’s stability and handling, so a thorough inspection of the suspension linkage and bushings is essential. The seatbelt webbing damage, while not a safety hazard at this stage, should be repaired promptly to avoid further fraying or failure under stress. Before proceeding with purchase, the buyer should also verify the recall repairs with Citroën to confirm that all outstanding issues have been resolved to the manufacturer’s specifications. In the interim, the vehicle should be kept off the road until these defects are addressed, as unresolved suspension or safety-related issues pose risks to both the driver and passengers. Beyond immediate repairs, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle, focusing on the front suspension components, brake systems, and tyre condition. Check for signs of corrosion on suspension arms, calipers, and brake discs, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, as standing corrosion can lead to binding or premature failure. Additionally, verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged inactivity can cause internal degradation or terminal corrosion, and ensure all fluids—brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil—are at optimal levels, with time-based servicing recommended every 2–3 years for the PureTech engine to mitigate wear and emissions-related issues. Lastly, inspect the tyre sidewalls for signs of cracking or perishing, which can compromise structural integrity, especially in older vehicles even with moderate mileage.