2011 Citroen C3 1.4L Petrol · CE61 WVY

The December 2025 test at 95,021 miles returned a pass, yet the advisory on corroded rear fuel pipes signals a worsening maintenance trend that began emerging in 2023. A same-day failure for brake fluid significantly below the minimum mark confirms recent neglect of basic hydraulic servicing, while the fuel pipe corrosion introduces a potential fire risk and structural integrity concern that will require immediate attention to retain a valid certificate. Mileage accumulation remained modest through the first decade, averaging roughly 2,000 miles annually between 2016 and 2022, with the odometer reading just 46,962 miles at the December 2022 test. Usage then accelerated sharply: 12,000 miles covered in the 2023 test year, a similar increment in 2024, and a striking 24,000 miles recorded in the twelve months to December 2025. This step-change in duty cycle coincides directly with the onset of mechanical defects, suggesting components previously preserved by low use are now deteriorating rapidly under higher load. The 2023 test at 58,821 miles exposed worn front brake discs on both sides and worn inner suspension arm bushes on both front lower arms, defects that were only advisory then but likely underlie the offside front binding brake recorded at the 2024 test (71,021 miles). Although the binding brake appeared as an advisory on the subsequent pass, the combination of pitted discs, seized caliper sliders, and tired suspension geometry points to a front axle that will demand discs, pads, caliper overhaul, and bush replacement as a matched set. The recurring lighting failures in 2024 — headlamp dip beam, indicator colour, and number plate lamp — indicate electrical grounds or bulb holders that have been left unattended during the recent high-mileage period. A pre-purchase inspection must verify the extent of fuel pipe corrosion along the chassis rails and confirm the brake fluid has been renewed to a high boiling point specification. Check front disc run-out and caliper slide freedom thoroughly; the binding noted in 2024 often masks a seized piston that a simple pad change will not cure. Press the front suspension for play in the lower arm inner bushes and drop links, and scan for any ABS faults that may stem from the disc condition. The history shows a vehicle that received minimal intervention until heavy use exposed latent wear; budget accordingly for a comprehensive front-end refresh and fuel system remediation.