2022 Citroen C5 Aircross Shine + Phev Auto 1.6L Hybrid electric (clean) · CF22 NWN

The 2022 Citroën C5 Aircross PHEV Auto has achieved a clean pass at its most recent DVSA MOT test on 12th July 2024, with no recorded defects or advisories. This outcome represents a stable maintenance record, as there is no prior MOT history available to compare against, but the absence of failures or advisories in the single test conducted suggests consistent compliance with roadworthiness standards. The vehicle’s age and the absence of any prior MOT failures or advisories indicate that the owner has likely maintained the car with due diligence, though the low recorded mileage relative to its age warrants further scrutiny to rule out potential issues arising from prolonged periods of inactivity. The recorded mileage of 22,412 miles for a vehicle aged four years—equivalent to approximately 5,603 miles annually—is unusually low for its age and class. Such a low annual mileage often reflects either infrequent use, long periods of storage, or a combination of both. Mechanically, this usage profile can lead to specific concerns, particularly in areas prone to corrosion from standing, such as brake systems, suspension components, and the undercarriage. For instance, standing brake discs may develop corrosion or binding calipers due to prolonged inactivity, while suspension bushes and coil springs could exhibit stiffness or wear from lack of dynamic movement. Additionally, the PHEV drivetrain and electrical systems may also be affected by reduced use, potentially leading to issues with the battery’s charge cycle or hybrid control modules if not regularly cycled. Given the vehicle’s age, mileage, and clean MOT record, prospective buyers should conduct a thorough physical inspection to address potential concerns arising from low usage. First and foremost, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur over time even with minimal mileage, particularly in colder climates. Check the brake system for corrosion on discs and linings, and listen for unusual grinding or binding when applying the brakes—this could indicate seized calipers or warped discs. Inspect the suspension for stiffness in the coil springs and bushes, testing each corner for uneven ride quality or clunking noises when driving over bumps, which may signal worn or degraded components. The undercarriage should be scrutinised for rust or corrosion, especially around the exhaust system, wheel arches, and suspension mounts, as standing vehicles are particularly vulnerable to these issues. For fluid systems, the owner should verify the service history for time-based servicing, such as the oil change, brake fluid flush, and coolant replacement, which are critical for maintaining performance and preventing long-term damage. Given the PHEV’s electrical and hybrid components, the 12V battery should be tested for charge retention and overall health, as prolonged disuse can lead to battery degradation or failure. Finally, a test drive is essential to assess the vehicle’s drivability, listening for any unusual noises from the drivetrain, exhaust, or electrical systems, and confirming that the PHEV’s regenerative braking and charging functions operate smoothly. If any concerns are identified during these checks, particularly around corrosion or fluid degradation, a professional inspection may be recommended to address potential issues before they escalate.