2004 Citroen C3 1.4L Petrol · GL04 ALU

As a 1360cc petrol engine, this C3 is likely to sit in a relatively low insurance group, making it affordable for newer drivers. Fuel economy for this era of Citroen is generally acceptable for urban driving, though it will not match modern turbocharged equivalents.

Maintenance costs for a 20-year-old vehicle can be unpredictable. While parts for the C3 are widely available, you should budget for more frequent replacement of consumables like tyres and brake pads, as the MOT history suggests these are recurring maintenance points for this specific car. Estimated annual running costs are moderate.

First, inspect the tyres closely. The MOT records for 2024, 2025, and 2026 all mention tyres that are 'slightly damaged/cracking or perishing'. This suggests a tendency for the rubber to degrade, potentially due to age or storage conditions rather than just tread wear.

Second, examine the suspension and chassis. The 2025 MOT failure included an excessively worn offside front suspension arm ball joint, and the 2024/2025 records highlight corrosion in the rear suspension mounting areas. A mechanic should check these mounting points to ensure the corrosion remains within safe limits. Finally, check the headlamp lenses and indicators, as these have been flagged for defects in previous years.