2016 Citroen C4 Picasso 1.6L Diesel · FN66 RRO

The most recent MOT test on the 2016 Citroën C4 Picasso was conducted on 2026-01-12 and passed without any recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround following a series of failures and advisories in the preceding year. However, the vehicle’s MOT history reveals a pattern of persistent suspension and brake-related issues, particularly around anti-roll bar ball joints, front shock absorbers, and brake components, which have been flagged as either major failures or advisories in multiple tests. While the latest test shows no active failures, the recurring advisories—such as slight play in front anti-roll bar ball joints and worn shock absorber bushes—suggest ongoing wear progression that should not be ignored. The vehicle’s performance in previous MOTs indicates a trend of deferred maintenance, with some components nearing critical thresholds, particularly the suspension and braking systems, which are critical for roadworthiness and safety. The recorded mileage of 94,531 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 9,453 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. This level of mileage does not necessarily indicate excessive wear if the vehicle has been used consistently without prolonged periods of inactivity, which could accelerate corrosion and fluid degradation. However, the absence of a service history or clear maintenance records makes it difficult to gauge the true extent of wear on consumables like fluids, filters, and timing belts, which can degrade over time regardless of mileage. The vehicle’s history does not show any dramatic spikes in mileage, suggesting steady use rather than rapid accumulation, but the suspension and brake advisories imply that certain components have been subjected to prolonged stress, potentially accelerating wear beyond what would be expected from purely mileage-based usage. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination are the front suspension and braking systems, given the recurring MOT advisories. On the test drive, listen for unusual clunking noises from the suspension, particularly when negotiating bumps or corners, which could indicate worn ball joints or damaged bushes in the anti-roll bar linkages or shock absorbers. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns, which may suggest misalignment or suspension issues, and verify that the tyres have been rotated or balanced to prevent premature wear. Inspect the brake discs for signs of pitting, scoring, or corrosion, and listen for any grinding or squealing noises when applying the brakes, which could indicate worn brake pads or binding calipers. Additionally, examine the offside front shock absorbers for any signs of leakage or excessive deflection, as these failures can lead to poor handling and reduced vehicle stability. Beyond the immediate concerns, the vehicle’s age and usage profile warrant a thorough inspection of the tyre condition, particularly focusing on the outer sidewalls for signs of perishing or cracking, which can compromise tyre integrity and safety. Given the advisories on rear child seat positioning, ensure that any future modifications do not obstruct the inspection of adult seat belts, as this could pose a safety risk. Pay particular attention to the battery health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to corrosion and poor performance, which can affect the electrical systems and starter motor. Finally, since the vehicle has not undergone a full service in recent years, consider checking the fluid levels—particularly the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant—and inspecting the timing belt and water pump for signs of wear or replacement requirements, as these components can degrade over time regardless of mileage. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, also verify that the fuel system is clear of moisture and that the fuel cap has been kept closed to prevent contamination.