2011 Citroen C1 1.0L Petrol · FT61 AAJ

The most recent MOT inspection for this Citroen C1 on 24 November 2025 resulted in a pass, but the record indicates a worsening trend in mechanical advisories compared to previous years. While the vehicle has successfully passed its tests since 2020, the frequency and nature of the advisories have increased significantly in the last two years. The transition from a clean MOT in 2022 to a series of recurring issues regarding suspension components, braking surfaces, and tyre wear suggests that the vehicle is entering a phase of age-related component degradation. The failure in late 2025 due to lighting issues was minor and rectified, but the underlying advisories point toward impending maintenance requirements rather than a stable maintenance profile. With a recorded mileage of 73,012 miles over approximately 15 years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 4,867 miles per year. This is considered very low annual usage for a petrol-engined city car. While low mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, it can present specific risks associated with infrequent use. Vehicles that spend long periods stationary are prone to accelerated rubber degradation, such as perished suspension bushes and tyre sidewall cracking, as well as potential corrosion on brake discs and seizing of calipers. The low mileage context suggests that the mechanical issues noted in the MOT history may be a result of age and time-based degradation rather than high-intensity road use. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the recurring advisories regarding the front suspension and braking systems. The repeated mention of worn front inner suspension arm pins or bushes and anti-roll bar linkages indicates that the rubber components are reaching the end of their service life. During a test drive, you should listen for any knocking, clunking, or creaking noises when driving over speed bumps or uneven road surfaces, as these are classic symptoms of worn suspension bushes. Furthermore, the advisory regarding worn front inner brake discs suggests that the friction material or the discs themselves are nearing the minimum thickness. You should check for any brake shudder or pulsation through the pedal when braking at speed, which could indicate warped or unevenly worn discs. The tyre history shows a recurring advisory for the offside front tyre being worn close to the legal limit or worn on the edge, which may indicate an alignment issue or uneven load distribution. Inspect all tyres for uneven tread wear patterns and check the sidewalls for any signs of perishing or cracking due to the vehicle's age. Given the low annual mileage, it is also prudent to verify the service history for calendar-based maintenance, such as oil changes and brake fluid replacements, which are critical regardless of distance travelled. Finally, check the condition of the headlamp lenses, as the advisory regarding product on the lens suggests potential oxidation or cloudiness, which can diminish light output and should be monitored for safety during night driving.