2006 Citroen C4 1.4L Petrol · CE06 ACF

The 2006 Citroën C4’s most recent MOT test on 17 October 2024—just nine months ago—confirmed it passed without defects at 42,591 miles. This suggests the vehicle has remained roadworthy within the last year, though the history reveals a pattern of repeated failures in October 2022 and 2023, both at the same mileage (32,378 and 37,826 respectively), indicating a potential seasonal or test-specific anomaly rather than a worsening trend. The absence of advisories or recurring faults in the last two successful tests implies no ongoing mechanical issues were identified by the tester, but the double failures in prior years warrant scrutiny of components prone to periodic inspection, such as suspension alignment or brake systems. The recorded mileage of 42,591 miles over nearly 20 years equates to approximately 2,130 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gap between tests—particularly the identical mileage for the October 2022 and 2023 failures—suggests the car may have been stationary or lightly used for extended periods, which could accelerate certain forms of wear, such as suspension rubber degradation or brake fluid deterioration. The lack of mileage progression between the 2022 and 2023 tests (a span of 1,448 miles in 12 months) is notable and may indicate the vehicle was not regularly driven, potentially leading to issues like seized components or corrosion in underused systems. Given the repeated failures in October 2022 and 2023, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system, particularly the condition of coil springs, bushes, and dampers, as these are common causes of MOT failures in older Citroën models. The binding calipers or uneven brake pad wear could also explain the double failures, so the brake hydraulic system—including master cylinder seals, brake lines, and caliper pistons—should be checked for leaks or corrosion. Structural integrity, especially around wheel arches and sills, should be examined for corrosion, as prolonged periods of inactivity can exacerbate rust development. While the last two MOTs passed without issues, the historical pattern suggests these areas demand careful attention.