2004 Citroen Xsara 2.0L Petrol · GU04 EOX

The Citroën XSara’s most recent MOT test, conducted on 2025-02-21 at 70,552 miles, resulted in a clean pass with no defects recorded. This marks the third consecutive pass since 2023, though the record reveals a pattern of two back-to-back failures in February 2024 and February 2025—both occurring within a week of the subsequent pass. The absence of defects in the latest test suggests any issues identified during the failed examinations were either rectified promptly or were minor enough to meet the MOT’s threshold. However, the repeated failures at roughly 66,000 and 70,500 miles indicate a potential area of concern that was not escalated beyond the MOT’s scope, warranting closer scrutiny. The vehicle’s mileage progression—averaging around 3,200 miles annually—sits on the lower end for its age, which could imply lighter use or prolonged periods of inactivity. The gaps between tests are consistent at approximately 12 months, with no abrupt spikes or prolonged neglect. The February 2024 failure at 66,028 miles followed a 3,807-mile interval since the 2023 pass, while the 2025 failure at 70,516 miles occurred after 4,464 miles. This suggests the owner adhered to the MOT cycle but did not proactively address recurring issues beyond the legal requirement. Given the lack of defect details in the failed tests, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and pads, as the repeated failures may hint at binding or uneven wear. The suspension—including coil springs, bushes, and dampers—should be examined for excessive play or corrosion, especially in a vehicle of this age where rubber components degrade over time. Structural integrity, particularly around the wheel arches and sills, must also be assessed for corrosion, as rust can compromise the chassis’s load-bearing capacity. Tyre condition, while not explicitly flagged, should be verified, as failing twice on tread depth implies either basic upkeep was overlooked or the tyres were replaced just before each test. Finally, the exhaust system and emissions should be checked for leaks or excessive smoke, as these are common failure points in older vehicles.