1988 Citroen 2CV 0.6L Petrol · E236 EGU

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 2021-11-25, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking the vehicle’s most recent inspection within the past five years. The consistent passing of all prior MOTs—from 2014 through 2021—indicates a stable maintenance record, with no evidence of worsening mechanical issues or recurring failures. The absence of failures or critical advisories over this period suggests that the owner has likely addressed any minor wear or corrosion promptly, though the 2017 advisory on near-side inner suspension mounting corrosion remains a notable but non-failing condition that warrants continued monitoring. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 98,542 miles at the time of this assessment represents an unusually low annual usage rate of approximately 2,593 miles per year, which is far below the typical wear-and-tear expectations for a 38-year-old 2CV. Such low mileage often reflects extended periods of the car being stored rather than driven, which can exacerbate issues like standing corrosion, fluid degradation, and component deterioration that are not directly tied to distance traveled. The extended gaps between MOTs—particularly the five-year interval from 2014 to 2019—further suggest limited operational use, raising concerns about potential calendar-based wear, such as brake fluid hardening, engine oil degradation, or fuel system contamination from prolonged idling or inactivity. Given the clean MOT history and low mileage, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection to address the most critical age- and usage-related risks. First, examine the tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at low mileage due to age-related rubber deterioration. Check the vehicle’s standing position for evidence of corrosion on the near-side suspension components, particularly around the near-side inner suspension mounting area mentioned in the 2017 advisory, as prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate rust propagation. Inspect the 12V battery for signs of corrosion on terminals, swelling, or reduced cranking power, as older batteries may struggle with prolonged inactivity. Additionally, verify that the service book records include time-based maintenance for fluids such as engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, as these can degrade significantly over extended storage periods. A test drive should include listening for unusual suspension clunks or binding in the steering or brakes, as well as monitoring for uneven tyre wear patterns that could indicate misalignment or suspension wear. If the vehicle has been stored in a damp or cold environment, check for signs of condensation-related damage to the electrical system or fuel lines. Finally, consider a professional inspection of the exhaust system for signs of rust or structural compromise, as the 2CV’s exposed components are particularly vulnerable to corrosion.