2010 Citroen C1 1.0L Petrol · FD10 SHX

The most recent MOT test conducted on the 2010 Citroën C1 on 2025-06-13 resulted in a passing grade, though it was preceded by two failures in the same test cycle, including major issues with the front windscreen wipers and headlamp beam alignment. Despite these failures, the vehicle has demonstrated a pattern of recurring but non-major defects, particularly in the suspension and lighting systems, with advisories consistently flagging worn anti-roll bar linkage bushes and lower suspension arm bushes across multiple tests. The presence of these repeated advisories suggests a gradual wear progression in the suspension components, which, while not currently causing roadworthiness issues, indicates that the vehicle may be approaching critical limits in these areas over time. The fact that the latest MOT passed without major failures suggests that the owner has likely addressed the windscreen wiper and headlamp issues, but the suspension advisories remain a persistent concern that should not be overlooked. The recorded mileage of 68,261 miles for a vehicle aged 16 years is exceptionally low by industry standards, reflecting an annual usage rate of approximately 4,266 miles. Such low mileage is unusual for a car of this age and typically suggests periods of prolonged inactivity or light use, which can lead to specific wear patterns distinct from those seen in high-mileage vehicles. For instance, standing for extended periods can accelerate corrosion in brake systems, particularly the discs and calipers, as moisture and road salt can corrode the metal surfaces. Additionally, the suspension components, which have been flagged as worn, may have suffered from lack of dynamic movement, causing bushings and linkages to degrade more rapidly than they would under normal driving conditions. The brake binding advisory from 2024-05-03 further supports this, as standing vehicles can cause brake pads to stick to the discs or calipers due to heat retention and lack of cooling. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination and test drive are the suspension system and brake components, given the recurring advisories and potential for standing-related corrosion. Start by examining the front anti-roll bar linkage bushes and lower suspension arm bushes for signs of excessive play or wear—listen for a clunking noise when driving over bumps, especially on the near- and offside sides, as this may indicate loose or failing components. Inspect the brake discs for signs of pitting, scoring, or corrosion, particularly near the edges where standing corrosion is most likely to occur. Test the braking performance by applying firm pressure and checking for uneven wear on the discs or a shuddering sensation, which could signal binding calipers or warped discs. Additionally, verify that the brake fluid is free of contamination and at the correct level, as standing vehicles can cause fluid degradation over time. Beyond the mechanical checks, focus on the vehicle’s overall condition and age-related wear. Given the low mileage, the tyres should be inspected for sidewall perishing or cracking, which can occur even with minimal use if the vehicle has been stored in a damp or extreme environment. Check the battery health, as prolonged inactivity can lead to a dead or weak battery, and ensure the electrical system, including indicators and headlamps, is fully functional. The interior mirrors, particularly the near-side, show signs of deterioration and previous repairs, so inspect for any further damage or delamination. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service schedule commensurate with its age, consider requesting the service history to confirm that routine maintenance such as oil changes, timing belt replacement, and fluid top-ups have been performed. If the service records are incomplete or missing, prioritise a professional inspection of the engine bay, transmission, and exhaust system to address potential hidden issues.