2017 Citroen C1 1.2L Petrol · EY67 MVT

The defining mechanical story of this 2017 Citroen C1 centres on a cluster of recurring front axle advisories that have now persisted across three consecutive MOT cycles, indicating a pattern rather than isolated wear. On the most recent test on 22 June 2026 the vehicle passed, but the examiner logged worn, pitted or scored nearside and offside front brake discs, thin front brake pads, and a worn nearside front anti-roll bar linkage pin or bush. The same front brake disc wear and anti-roll bar linkage wear were noted on the 2025 pass, and the anti-roll bar linkage wear was already present on both sides in 2024. Earlier tests in 2024 also recorded a nearside drive shaft oil seal weep. The progression from linkage wear first appearing in 2024, persisting through 2025, and remaining at the 2026 test, alongside brake disc wear escalating from general wear in 2025 to pitting and scoring in 2026, points to components that have not been rectified and are likely approaching a point where advisory becomes failure. A failed presentation on 22 June 2026 was caused solely by an inoperative nearside front position lamp, which is a typical low-cost bulb or LED issue and unrelated to the broader mechanical pattern, while a separate failed entry on 20 June 2024 was a re-test of advisories rather than fresh defects. Mileage accumulation over the recorded period is unusually low for a nine-year-old vehicle, with 47,282 miles on the odometer equating to roughly 5,254 miles per year. The MOT history shows annual tests from 2021 through 2026, indicating the car has remained in continuous use, but the low annual mileage suggests predominantly short urban trips rather than sustained higher-speed running. Mechanically, such usage tends to place greater demand on braking components due to frequent stop-start cycles, which aligns with the chronic front brake disc and pad advisories, and can accelerate corrosion on exposed underbody and suspension components. Equally, prolonged standing periods between short journeys can allow moisture to settle in the braking system, contributing to disc pitting and surface corrosion, and can encourage the hardening of suspension bushes. The recurring rear tyre cracking and perishing advisories in 2021 and 2024, despite the low mileage, are consistent with age-related rubber degradation rather than wear from distance. For a prospective buyer, the priority inspection items are the front braking system and front suspension. The front discs should be measured for remaining thickness and checked for lipping, while the pads need a visual inspection to confirm material remaining, given they have been flagged as thin for two consecutive years and are now likely close to the minimum. The anti-roll bar linkage bushes should be examined for free play, and the condition of the drop links noted, as these components typically deteriorate further between MOTs and will eventually require replacement. On test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, and pay particular attention to any vagueness or looseness through the steering, as worn anti-roll bar components can induce a slight delay in transient response. The nearside drive shaft oil seal weep flagged in 2024 should be re-examined by inspecting the inside of the nearside front wheel and the surrounding CV boot for fresh oil residue, as a small weep can develop into a more significant leak over a further two years of service. Brake pedal feel should be firm, and any judder under braking would confirm that the pitted front discs are now beyond their serviceable limit. Secondary checks should include the rear tyres for sidewall cracking, given that perishing was noted in both 2021 and 2024, suggesting age-related deterioration that may now warrant replacement regardless of remaining tread depth. The nearside front position lamp should be verified as functional, and all other exterior bulbs and number plate illumination checked for consistent output, as the earlier failed presentation indicates an electrical gremlin in that circuit. The underbody and subframe mounting points warrant a visual examination from below for any surface corrosion, particularly given the car's age and the likelihood of road salt exposure. Given the concentration of recurring advisories on the front axle, obtaining a quote for replacement of the front brake discs, pads, and anti-roll bar linkage components would be prudent before purchase, as these items are unlikely to pass a further MOT cycle without attention.