2008 Citroen C4 1.6L Petrol · EY58 XCW

A persistent oil leak and a series of recurring tyre‑wear advisories dominate the mechanical narrative of this 2008 Citroën C4, with the most recent MOT on 16 May 2023 recording a pass but noting a damaged windscreen. Earlier tests show the oil‑leak advisory appearing from February 2021 onward, while tyre condition has been flagged at every opportunity since 2018, ranging from edge‑wear on the front tyres to cracking on the rear. The pattern suggests a steady, rather than escalating, defect profile: no new major failures have emerged since the 2021 lighting failures, and the vehicle has remained MOT‑compliant despite the lingering issues. At 112,668 mi the car averages roughly 6,300 mi per year, a mileage rate that sits comfortably within normal usage for an eighteen‑year‑old vehicle. The MOT record shows no prolonged gaps in testing, indicating the car has been on the road consistently rather than sitting idle for extended periods. This steady accumulation of miles aligns with the gradual tyre wear noted, and the oil‑leak advisory persisting over several years points to a component that may be approaching the end of its service life rather than an abrupt failure. Prospective buyers should inspect the source of the oil leak before committing – look for fresh oil stains under the engine bay, check the oil level and condition, and listen for any drips or hissing noises while the engine is running. A leak that is “not excessive” today could worsen, potentially affecting seals, gaskets or the oil‑separator; any sudden loss of oil pressure or engine smoke would be a red flag. The tyre advisories imply that all four tyres are close to the legal tread limit or showing early cracking; a thorough visual inspection for uneven wear patterns, sidewall bulges, or punctures is essential, and a test drive should include listening for thumping or vibration over bumps, which could indicate worn suspension bushes or misaligned steering geometry that are contributing to the tyre wear. Finally, verify that all lighting functions are fully operational – the front position lamp, rear registration plate lamp and windscreen washer system were previously failed and must now be confirmed as working. Check the windscreen for any cracks that could compromise visibility, and ensure the washer jets deliver fluid across the entire glass. Although an emissions advisory was recorded in 2019, a modern on‑board diagnostics scan can confirm whether the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors are still within tolerance. Paying close attention to these specific areas will give a realistic picture of the car’s current roadworthiness and any imminent maintenance that may be required.