2014 Citroen C1 1.0L Petrol · FV64 FTP

The 2014 Citroën C1’s latest MOT test on 2025-12-11 was passed without any recorded defects, marking a continuation of a stable maintenance record over the preceding six years. While the vehicle has not encountered any failures, the advisories from the 2020 and 2018 MOTs—particularly the front brake disc wear and tyre edge wear—suggest a pattern of gradual, but persistent, component degradation that has not yet reached critical thresholds. These advisories indicate that the brake discs are experiencing moderate pitting and scoring, which, while not failing the MOT at this time, may warrant closer attention as they approach further wear progression. The absence of further advisories or failures since 2020 implies that the vehicle’s maintenance has likely been consistent, though the owner should be mindful of the cumulative impact of these conditions on braking performance and longevity. The recorded mileage of 25,376 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 12 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 2,115 miles per year, which is significantly below the typical wear patterns for a car of this age. Such low mileage often correlates with periods of prolonged inactivity, where components like brakes, tyres, and suspension may degrade differently than under higher-stress conditions. The front brake discs showing wear advisories despite low mileage could imply that the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods, leading to brake disc corrosion or binding calipers due to moisture ingress or standing. Additionally, the tyre edge wear advisories suggest that the tyres may have been underinflated or subjected to uneven loading, which can accelerate wear even at lower mileage. This discrepancy between usage and wear highlights the importance of a thorough inspection to rule out hidden issues exacerbated by infrequent use. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front brake system, given the recurring advisories on the discs. Visually check for any signs of uneven brake disc thickness, scoring, or corrosion, and listen for any grinding or binding when the brakes are applied—particularly on cold starts, where moisture in the brake fluid or standing corrosion may cause initial hesitation. The tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at low mileage due to age-related degradation, and ensure they are free of excessive edge wear beyond the 3mm legal limit. The suspension should be inspected for signs of worn or cracked bushes, particularly around the front axle, as prolonged inactivity can accelerate wear in these components. Additionally, check for any fluid leaks under the vehicle, as standing fluids can corrode internal components over time. The battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as low usage can lead to diminished capacity or sulphation. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, the coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid should be replaced or refreshed, as these fluids degrade over time regardless of mileage. If possible, obtain a service history to confirm that fluid changes and other time-based maintenance have been attended to.