2005 Citroen C3 1.1L Petrol · FV54 LVW

The vehicle presents a declining maintenance profile characterized by recurring mechanical issues. While the most recent test on 27 May 2025 at 168,690 miles resulted in a pass, the tester flagged an oil leak, a minor exhaust gas leak, and a nearside rear tyre worn close to the legal limit. This follows a consistent pattern of exhaust leaks noted in the 2024 and 2023 tests, suggesting that while the vehicle remains roadworthy, certain components are reaching the end of their service life or are being managed with minimal intervention. The mileage accumulation appears consistent with a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 8,000 miles per year. The records show steady progression from 81,530 miles in July 2012 to the current 168,690 miles. There are no significant gaps in usage, though the interval between the 2019 and 2020 tests shows a period of very low mileage, with the vehicle covering only 14 miles in that year. This period of inactivity may have contributed to the issues noted in the October 2019 test, such as the binding offside front brake and play in the handbrake lever. A prospective buyer should prioritize a thorough inspection of the engine and exhaust systems due to the persistent oil leaks and exhaust gas leaks documented since at least 2013. The 2019 report specifically flagged bubbling on both outer sills, which indicates structural corrosion that requires immediate physical verification to ensure the integrity of the chassis. Recurring issues with suspension components, such as the ball joint failure in 2013 and the deteriorated suspension arm mounting in 2015, suggest that the lower chassis and suspension bushes may require attention. Finally, the history of worn tyres and binding brakes indicates a tendency for consumable maintenance to be reactive rather than proactive. The presence of an oil leak in the most recent 2025 test, alongside previous sump dampness in 2021, suggests the engine seals may be degrading. Any purchase should include a close examination of the underside for active leaks and a check of the sills for advanced rust to mitigate the risks identified in the historical MOT data.