2010 Citroen C1 1.0L Petrol · FN60 RYB

The most recent MOT, dated 29 August 2025, was passed but recorded a minor fault (off‑side rear registration plate lamp) and three advisories – corroded rear brake pipes on both sides and a non‑excessive oil leak. Over the last six years the pattern shows an emerging issue with rear brake‑pipe corrosion that has persisted from 2023 through 2025, a developing oil‑leak advisory first noted in 2023, and a serious failure in August 2023 for a rear exhaust leak and out‑of‑specification lambda reading. Although the vehicle cleared the subsequent 2024 and 2025 tests, the recurrence of the same corrosion advisories and the earlier major failure indicate a maintenance trend that is stabilising but still requires attention to prevent a return to a fail status. At 158,831 miles on a 2010 Citroën C1 the average annual mileage works out at roughly 9,900 mi per year, which sits squarely within the normal UK usage envelope for a small city car. There are no obvious gaps in the recorded mileage that would suggest long periods of storage, so the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components is likely to be proportional to the distance covered rather than to calendar ageing alone. The mileage level does, however, mean that many wear items will be approaching the end of their service lives and should be inspected for typical age‑related degradation. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the rear brake‑pipe assemblies. Corrosion and the presence of grease or other material often indicate rust‑penetrated steel that may be close to failure; listen for a faint hissing or metallic rattle when the brakes are applied, and check for any dampness or staining around the rear brake lines and the rear wheel cylinders. The oil leak, although classified as non‑excessive, should be traced – a small drip from the valve cover gasket or oil filter housing can lead to oil on the exhaust manifold or brake components, potentially causing smoke or reduced brake efficiency. Verify that the leak has not worsened by inspecting the engine bay for fresh oil deposits and confirming that the oil level remains stable between fills. The rear tyre was flagged as slightly damaged and showing early cracking in 2023, and given the vehicle’s age the sidewalls may now be perishing even if tread depth appears acceptable. Examine both rear tyres for any dry rot, cracking, or bulging, and compare the wear pattern to the front tyres to spot mis‑alignment or suspension wear. While the front brake discs were noted as pitted but not weakened, a visual inspection for deep scoring and a test‑drive brake feel – looking for pulsation or reduced bite – will confirm whether resurfacing or replacement is imminent. Finally, because the car has been in service for more than a decade, have the battery tested for cranking voltage, confirm that all fluids (coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil) have been changed within the recommended intervals, and check the condition of suspension bushes and coil springs for any looseness or corrosion that could affect ride quality. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of whether the C1 remains a reliable, road‑worthy purchase.