2013 Citroen DS3 1.6L Petrol · DF13 HME

A persistent pattern of advisories relating to the rear exhaust mounting, brake disc wear, and minor lighting defects defines the MOT history of this 2013 Citroen DS3 across recent test cycles. The rear exhaust mounting defect has been flagged on three consecutive tests from 2023 to 2025, progressing to a front exhaust mounting advisory in the most recent pass on 7 August 2026, which suggests progressive deterioration of the exhaust system's rubber hangers and supports. A significant emission failure was recorded on 13 August 2025 when exhaust carbon monoxide content after the second fast idle exceeded manufacturer limits, classified as a Major defect; although the vehicle was repaired and passed two days later on 15 August 2025, this remains a notable data point that warrants verification of the catalyst and engine management health. The rear brake discs have also been flagged repeatedly for pitting and wear, first noted in July 2023, and front brake discs and pads drew advisories in August 2024, indicating a braking system approaching the boundary of acceptable service life. The recorded mileage of 66,124 miles over approximately 13 years equates to an average of around 5,000 miles annually, which is low for the vehicle's age and segment. The MOT records show consistent annual testing with no apparent gaps in road use, and the mileage progression is broadly linear without sudden jumps or extended stationary periods that would typically raise concerns about dormant corrosion, dried seals, or fuel system degradation. Given the relatively light annual accumulation, significant wear on the engine, gearbox, and major drivetrain components is less likely, though the recorded advisories suggest that the braking and exhaust systems have nonetheless accumulated age-related deterioration consistent with thirteen years of road exposure, including corrosion from winter salt use typical of UK conditions. For a prospective buyer, a physical inspection should focus on the specific components that have drawn repeated advisories. The exhaust system warrants particular attention: with mounting defects flagged on both front and rear hangers across multiple tests, the rubber isolators are likely perished and the system may be sagging or contacting the underbody, which can produce a resonant drone or tapping noise over bumps. A visual check from underneath with the vehicle raised, or feeling for excessive movement when the tailpipe is manually manipulated, will confirm whether replacement hangers are required. The exhaust gas catalyst should also be considered in light of the August 2025 emission failure; on a test drive, listen for any rattling from the catalytic converter area, note any smell of rotten eggs from the exhaust, and check the dashboard for illumination of the engine management light, as a recurring CO issue can point to a failing lambda sensor, exhaust leak before the catalyst, or internal catalyst substrate breakdown. The braking system requires careful evaluation given the recurring disc wear advisories on both front and rear axles. The rear discs have been flagged as pitted and scored on consecutive tests, and the front discs and pads were noted as wearing thin in 2024, meaning replacement is now probable rather than optional. On a test drive, apply the brakes firmly from speed and listen for any grinding, squealing, or juddering through the steering wheel, which would indicate disc runout or pad wear beyond the advisory threshold. Inspect the discs through the wheels for visible lipping at the outer edge and deep pitting on the friction surface. The minor lighting defects for the offside registration plate lamp are trivial to rectify, but the headlamp aim defect recorded as a Pass after Rectification in 2025 should be verified by checking beam pattern against a wall in darkness, as headlamp levelling motors on ageing DS3 units can fail. Finally, the outstanding manufacturer recall noted in 2025 should be confirmed as completed with Citroen before purchase, as unaddressed recalls can affect vehicle safety systems.