2015 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · FD15 HWM

As an automotive inspector evaluating this 2015 Citroen C4, the official DVSA MOT history shows a recent pass recorded on February 16, 2026, following a brief failure four days prior due to split anti-roll bar ball joint dust covers on both front wheels. Reviewing the multi-year trajectory, the maintenance trend is stable and typical for an eleven-year-old family hatchback, with the vehicle consistently passing its annual tests after addressing routine wear-and-tear items. The prior failure was promptly rectified with a retest, indicating that the previous keeper maintained the vehicle adequately rather than allowing minor faults to escalate into major mechanical hazards. The recorded mileage of 86,396 miles translates to an average annual usage of approximately 7,854 miles, which sits comfortably within the national average for a diesel or petrol passenger car of this vintage. This steady, moderate usage profile suggests the vehicle has been used for regular commuting or mixed driving rather than sitting idle for extended periods or suffering from punishing high-mileage commercial use. Such mileage means that major mechanical assemblies like the engine and gearbox have been kept warm and active regularly, though ancillary components such as suspension joints, bushes, and braking hardware will naturally show the effects of age and regular friction. Given the recurring advisories and recent history, your physical inspection and test drive must focus heavily on the front suspension and braking systems. The 2024 and 2025 MOT records consistently noted front lower suspension arm bushes wearing down, which can lead to vague steering feedback, tracking errors, or a dull knocking noise when driving over potholes or speed bumps. While the anti-roll bar dust covers were replaced for the recent 2026 pass, you should still peer behind the front alloy wheels to check for any fresh grease leaks or degraded rubber boots. During the test drive, listen closely for any suspension clunks over rough surfaces and ensure the car tracks straight under heavy braking. Furthermore, past advisories noted rear brake discs becoming pitted and corroded alongside rear tyres showing signs of age-related cracking or perishing in 2023. You must inspect all four tyre sidewalls for fine surface fissures, particularly if the tread depth appears high relative to the age of the rubber, as old tyres lose structural integrity and grip. Check the friction surfaces of the rear brake discs for deep scoring or heavy rust ridges, which often occur if the car is parked outdoors in damp weather or if the rear brakes do not work hard enough during light braking. Finally, verify that the service book contains regular stamps confirming timely oil changes and brake fluid flushes, as calendar-based fluid degradation is just as critical as mileage-based servicing on a vehicle of this age.