2012 Citroen C1 1.0L Petrol · GD12 MBO

The most recent MOT on 10 May 2026 was a clean pass with no recorded defects, confirming that the vehicle currently meets the statutory safety and emissions standards. Over the past five years the car has shown a generally stable maintenance pattern: three consecutive passes (2025, 2024, 2022) interspersed with a single failure in 2023 due to an exposed tyre ply and a minor lamp failure in 2022. The only recurring advisories relate to front wish‑bone bushings and tyre perishing, suggesting that while the vehicle has avoided serious mechanical breakdowns, there are wear items that merit attention before they become critical. At 71 470 mi recorded on a 2012 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 5 100 mi per year, which is considerably below the typical UK usage rate for a small city car. Such low utilisation often points to periods of extended storage rather than continuous driving. While low mileage reduces cumulative wear on engine and drivetrain components, prolonged standing can accelerate rubber perishing, battery sulphation, and corrosion of suspension bushings and exhaust elements. There are no obvious spikes in mileage that would indicate a recent high‑stress usage episode, but the modest total distance does not preclude age‑related degradation. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the front wish‑bone bushings noted as perishing in the 2024 advisory; inspect for any looseness, clunking, or uneven wheel alignment when the steering wheel is rocked at low speed. Examine all four tyres for sidewall cracking, tread separation, or uneven wear patterns – the rear tyres were flagged in 2023 and the off‑side front tyre was close to the legal limit in 2021. During a test drive listen for any suspension noises such as rattles or thuds over bumps, feel for wandering or pulling, and check for vibration or shudder when applying the brakes, which could indicate worn discs or binding calipers. Verify that all external lighting functions correctly, especially the nearside rear registration plate lamp that failed in 2022. Given the vehicle’s age, a comprehensive age‑related inspection is advisable. Confirm the tyre manufacture dates; tyres older than six years should be replaced even if tread depth appears acceptable. Test the 12 V battery under load and check for signs of electrolyte loss or terminal corrosion, as batteries left idle for long periods often lose capacity. Inspect the exhaust system for the corrosion noted in 2021, looking for rust holes or weakened mounts that could affect emissions compliance. Examine the under‑carriage, wheel arches and suspension arms for any rust or cracked paint, and ensure that coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been refreshed within the recommended service intervals (typically every 24 months for fluids). A full service book review, confirming regular oil changes and any previous suspension or tyre work, will provide additional confidence in the car’s long‑term reliability.