2008 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · GV08 BYK

The most recent MOT test on the 2008 Citroën C4 occurred in April 2024, resulting in a passing grade despite multiple persistent advisories and a single major failure. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2022, the recurring issues—particularly the front and rear brake discs showing progressive wear, corroded suspension components, and a history of fractured coil springs—suggest a pattern of wear that has not been fully addressed. The failure in April 2024 highlighted critical brake conditions, including a rear brake pad thickness below the legal minimum, which would have rendered the vehicle unsafe if not rectified. This indicates that while the vehicle has avoided immediate roadside removal, the underlying mechanical degradation is not static; it requires proactive intervention to prevent escalation into more severe or dangerous faults. The recorded mileage of 129,597 miles over approximately 18 years represents an average annual usage of around 7,200 miles, which is relatively moderate for a vehicle of this age. However, the MOT history reveals periods of both low and high mileage accumulation, with notable gaps between tests—such as the 18-month interval between the 2021 and 2022 MOTs—and instances where the vehicle appears to have been driven more heavily, as suggested by the major failures in 2022 and 2021. Higher mileage in specific periods would accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluid systems, while prolonged idling or infrequent use could exacerbate corrosion in standing parts, such as axle mounts and coil springs. The combination of these factors means the vehicle’s condition is influenced by both active usage and the cumulative effects of time, with suspension and braking systems being particularly vulnerable. Given the vehicle’s age and the recurring advisories, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough mechanical inspection to confirm the resolution of past issues. Focus on the front and rear brake systems, paying close attention to the condition of the discs, pads, and calipers for signs of uneven wear, binding, or corrosion. Listen for any abnormal brake noise, such as grinding or squeaking, which could indicate residual issues with the previously failed pads or discs. During the test drive, observe the suspension for excessive clunking or bouncing, particularly over bumps, which may suggest worn ball joints or damaged coil springs. Inspect the rear axle mounts for any signs of play or excessive vibration, as the MOT advisories on corrosion and swivel pin wear could lead to further deterioration if left unchecked. Additionally, check the seat belt webbing for fraying or reinforcement damage, as this is a persistent advisory and could compromise passenger safety. For practical checks beyond the MOT history, the buyer should examine the vehicle’s tyre condition for signs of age-related degradation, such as sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with moderate mileage over time. Given the vehicle’s age, the 12V battery should be tested for capacity and charge retention, as older batteries may struggle to maintain power during prolonged periods of inactivity. Inspect the fluid levels and condition of the engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, noting that time-based degradation—particularly in brake fluid—can lead to stiffness or binding in the service brakes. Verify that the service history records are up to date, especially for the suspension and braking components, as the vehicle’s wear profile suggests that routine servicing may have been overlooked. Finally, a professional inspection of the exhaust system and emissions-related components is advisable, given the past failure due to excessive smoke, which could indicate deeper issues with the catalytic converter or engine management.