2013 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · FN63 LPK

The latest MOT test on the 2013 Citroën C4, conducted on 2026-07-25, resulted in a passing grade, though it did include several advisories that warrant careful consideration. While this is an improvement from the previous year’s failures—particularly the dangerous failure of the front brake pads being below the legal minimum thickness of 1.5 mm—there is a concerning pattern of recurring issues with tyre wear and suspension components. The advisories from 2023 and 2022 regarding tyre edge wear and cracking, alongside the repeated failures of anti-roll bar ball joint dust covers, suggest that the vehicle has not been fully maintained to industry standards. These defects, if left unaddressed, could escalate into more severe mechanical failures, especially given the vehicle’s age and accumulated mileage. The recorded mileage of 106,256 miles over roughly 13 years represents an average annual usage of around 8,174 miles, which is typical for a car of this age. However, the presence of multiple MOT failures and advisories—particularly those related to brake system inefficiencies and suspension wear—implies that the vehicle has either been driven at a higher rate than average or has experienced prolonged periods of standing without adequate servicing. The front brake pads failing to meet legal requirements and the repeated ball joint dust cover failures indicate potential neglect in routine maintenance, such as brake pad replacement and suspension component checks. Additionally, the significant gaps between some MOT tests (e.g., from 2021 to 2022) may suggest periods of disuse or improper storage, which can exacerbate issues like corrosion, fluid degradation, and tyre perishing. For a prospective buyer, the most critical immediate inspection should focus on the brake system. The dangerous failure from 2025-08-04—where the front brake pads were below the legal minimum thickness—demands that the pads and discs be fully replaced before purchase. During a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, a spongy or vibrating feel, or a grinding noise when braking, which could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. The advisories regarding tyre edge wear and cracking suggest that the tyres are approaching or have exceeded their useful life, and further wear could lead to hydroplaning or reduced traction. Inspect the tyres for signs of uneven tread wear, bulges, or sidewall damage, and ensure they meet the legal minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm. The suspension advisories, particularly the play in the steering rack and the failed ball joint dust covers, point to worn or damaged suspension components. Check for excessive clunking or rattling in the front or rear suspension during cornering or over bumps, and visually inspect the anti-roll bar ball joints for excessive play or binding. Beyond the immediate mechanical concerns, the vehicle’s age and usage profile necessitate a thorough physical examination. Given the 13-year age and 106,256 miles, the tyres should be replaced entirely, as edge wear and cracking are common in high-mileage vehicles. Inspect the sidewall for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity. The 12V battery should be tested for charge capacity and corrosion on terminals, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain or sulphation. Check the brake fluid for dark or contaminated levels, as standing brake fluid can absorb moisture and corrode brake components over time. Additionally, verify that the service history includes all scheduled fluid changes, such as coolant, transmission fluid, and differential fluid, as these degrade over time regardless of mileage. Finally, a thorough visual inspection of the exhaust system for leaks, rust, or structural integrity is advisable, given the vehicle’s age, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and ensure emissions compliance. If possible, arrange for a professional inspection to confirm the condition of the brake system, suspension, and other critical components before finalising the purchase.