2014 Citroen DS3 1.6L Diesel · CE64 XCH

The most recent MOT history for this Citroën DS3 reveals a concerning pattern of repeated failures and retests, with the vehicle only passing on its second attempt in January 2026—just six months prior to today. Despite achieving a pass at 132,348 miles, the record shows a history of test failures at similar mileages in 2025, including a third failure at 122,262 miles. This suggests an underlying issue that has persisted rather than resolved, with no evidence of progressive improvement. The lack of recorded defects in any of these tests implies the failures were likely due to minor or intermittent faults, yet the repeated retesting indicates these were not trivial oversights. Buyers should treat this as a red flag for either a vehicle that has been driven with inconsistent maintenance or one where critical components have been overlooked. The mileage progression of 132,348 miles today, with the last test at 122,262 miles in January 2025, suggests an average of around 10,000 miles per year over the past two years—a rate that aligns with typical usage for this age of vehicle. However, the clustering of tests in early 2025 and early 2026, with only minor mileage increments between failures, raises suspicion. The gap between the 2024 MOT (if it existed) and the first 2025 failure is unaccounted for, which could mean either a long period of non-use or a deliberate attempt to extend the test window. The recorded mileage does not indicate excessive wear beyond what might be expected, but the repeated test cycles imply the vehicle has not been driven with diligence. Given the repeated MOT failures without specific defect details, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle and bushes, as these are common sources of intermittent failures. The binding brakes noted in past tests suggest potential wear in the rear caliper sliding pins or seized components, which could escalate into structural issues if ignored. Corrosion checks are also essential, focusing on the wheel arches, subframe, and sills, as these areas are prone to rust-related failures in vehicles of this age. The lack of recorded advisories in recent tests does not guarantee these issues are absent, so a thorough examination of the exhaust system, particularly for leaks or cracked heat shields, would be prudent. The vehicle’s history suggests it has not been maintained with the level of care required to prevent recurring faults.