2022 Citroen C5 Aircross Shine + Phev Auto 1.6L Hybrid electric · CV22 CVR

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2022 Citroën C5 Aircross PHEV Auto was conducted on 2026-07-22 and resulted in a clean pass, with no defects or failures reported. This follows a previous MOT on 2026-04-23 that also passed, though it included an advisory for an offside rear tyre nail. The absence of failures and the minimal advisory history over the past two years suggests a stable maintenance record, with no evidence of worsening mechanical issues. The vehicle’s consistent MOT performance indicates that, assuming the advisory has been addressed, the core roadworthiness remains intact. However, the advisory itself—an offside rear tyre nail—requires attention, as it may indicate a need for further inspection of tyre integrity and potential wheel alignment or suspension wear, particularly if the nail has caused uneven tyre wear or a loss of grip. The recorded mileage of 18,859 miles for a vehicle aged four years is notably low, averaging approximately 4,715 miles per year. Such a low annual mileage is uncommon for a four-year-old car, especially one with a PHEV powertrain, which typically demands more frequent use to maintain battery health and hybrid system efficiency. Lower mileage can result from periods of prolonged stationary use, particularly if the vehicle was parked in a garage or climate-controlled environment, which may mitigate some wear but could also contribute to issues like tyre perishing, battery degradation, or fluid stagnation. Conversely, if the mileage is genuinely low due to infrequent use, the vehicle may have experienced less mechanical stress, but this also raises concerns about potential standing corrosion, particularly on the undercarriage, brake systems, and electrical components, which can accelerate deterioration when left unused for extended periods. Given the clean MOT history apart from the tyre advisory, the buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection to address potential issues arising from low mileage and the vehicle’s age. First, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur from prolonged storage or age-related degradation, even if mileage is low. Check for uneven wear patterns around the offside rear tyre, which could indicate suspension misalignment or camber issues—this is critical given the previous advisory. Inspect the battery terminals and the 12V battery itself for corrosion or signs of disuse-related failure, as PHEVs require regular charging to prevent battery degradation. Additionally, verify the brake system for corrosion on discs and linings, particularly if the vehicle has been stationary for long periods, as standing brakes can cause rusting and binding calipers. Fluid levels and condition should be checked, including the brake fluid (which should be replaced every two years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first), coolant, and transmission fluid, as these fluids degrade over time even with low mileage. The undercarriage should be scrutinised for rust or corrosion, especially around wheel arches, exhaust components, and the subframe, as prolonged stationary use can accelerate corrosion in these areas. Listen for any unusual noises during a test drive, such as clunking from suspension bushes or coil springs, which may indicate wear or damage. Pay particular attention to the hybrid system if the vehicle is to be used regularly, ensuring the battery management system is functioning correctly and that there are no signs of electrical gremlins or charging issues. Finally, if the vehicle has a service history, verify that the manufacturer-recommended service intervals—such as the oil change at 15,000 miles or the timing belt replacement at 60,000 miles—have been adhered to, as these are critical for long-term reliability. If the service book is missing or incomplete, request a full service history from the previous owner to confirm compliance with recommended maintenance schedules.