2019 Citroen C5 1.6L Petrol · JJ68 MCG

This Citroën C5 presents an unusual and concerning MOT history, with the most recent test in October 2025 showing a pass and a fail on the same day at 35,468 miles—both with no defects recorded. Such an anomaly is highly irregular, as duplicate entries on the same date typically indicate a clerical error or system glitch rather than a genuine test outcome. The preceding four annual MOTs, from October 2022 to October 2024, all passed without advisories or defects, suggesting the vehicle has maintained a clean record until this unexplained duplication. The absence of any recorded faults across five tests implies either meticulous maintenance or, more likely, a vehicle that has avoided significant mechanical issues—though the duplicated entry raises questions about the accuracy of the digital record. The mileage progression is notably slow, with just 35,468 miles over seven years—roughly 5,067 miles annually. This low usage could reflect infrequent driving, extended periods of inactivity, or even odometer manipulation, though the latter would require further verification. The mileage jumps between tests are consistent: 8,790 miles in 2022, 14,622 in 2023, and 23,231 in 2024, indicating sporadic but not excessive use. The lack of advisories or defects in any of these tests further supports the idea that the car has not been subjected to heavy or abusive driving conditions. However, the stagnant mileage over time may also suggest the vehicle has been stored for long periods, which could accelerate issues like battery degradation, tyre perishing, or suspension component stiffening due to lack of movement. Given the clean MOT history, a prospective buyer should still prioritise a thorough pre-purchase inspection, particularly focusing on components prone to degradation under low-mileage conditions. The suspension—including coil springs, anti-roll bars, and bushings—should be checked for stiffness or corrosion, as prolonged inactivity can cause rubber to harden or metal to seize. Brakes, despite no recorded faults, warrant close examination: binding calipers, uneven disc wear, or seized handbrake mechanisms are common in vehicles that sit unused for extended periods. Structural integrity is another key concern; inspect the sills, wheel arches, and underbody for corrosion, especially if the car has been garaged in damp conditions. Finally, verify the battery health, as low-mileage vehicles often suffer from parasitic drain or sulphation, and ensure all fluid levels—brake, coolant, and power steering—are within specification. The duplicated MOT entry alone does not indicate a mechanical issue, but it does justify deeper scrutiny of the vehicle’s service records and physical condition.