2009 Citroen C4 2.0L Diesel · FD09 EYX

The most recent MOT certificate for this Citroen C4 was issued as a pass in October 2023. Looking at the broader maintenance history, the vehicle has shown periods of stability interspersed with significant technical failures. While the 2020 failure was quite severe, involving multiple major electronic and safety system faults such as the ABS, ESC, and engine management light, the vehicle has successfully cleared subsequent tests. However, the recent advisory regarding a binding offside front service brake indicates a potential regression in the condition of the braking system that warrants immediate attention. With 101,136 miles recorded over 17 years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 5,949 miles per year. This is notably low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting it has not been subjected to heavy long-distance commuting. While lower mileage generally implies less wear on the engine, gearbox, and drivetrain, it also carries the risk of component degradation due to infrequent use. Long periods of standing can lead to the deterioration of rubber seals, the settling of contaminants in fluids, and the corrosion of braking components that are not regularly exercised. During your inspection and test drive, you must pay close attention to the braking system and suspension. The advisory for a binding offside front brake is a primary concern; listen for any rhythmic scraping or grinding and feel for any uneven deceleration or a pull toward the offside during braking. You should also check for excessive heat radiating from the front offside wheel after a short journey, which would confirm a sticking caliper. Given the previous advisory regarding misting shock absorbers, observe the vehicle's handling over speed bumps to ensure there is no excessive bouncing or clunking from the rear suspension. Furthermore, because of the low annual mileage and the age of the vehicle, a thorough physical inspection is required. Examine the tyres for any signs of perishing or sidewall cracking, as rubber degrades with age regardless of tread depth. Verify that the service history includes time-based fluid changes, specifically for the brake fluid and engine coolant, to mitigate the effects of chemical degradation. Ensure all electronic systems, particularly the electronic parking brake and the ABS, function without error messages on the dashboard, as the 2020 failure history suggests these systems have been problematic in the past. Finally, check the underside for any signs of standing corrosion or seized components.