2020 Citroen C5 1.5L Diesel · KT69 PRV

The 2020 Citroen C5 presents a mixed roadworthiness picture characterised by a generally stable history punctuated by a recent failure. Three consecutive MOT passes between December 2022 and February 2026 demonstrate solid maintenance up to the point of failure, with the 2026-02-23 test showing both front tyre wear and front brake pad thinning alongside intermittent rear boot release operation issues. However, the subsequent 2026-02-23 test resulted in a failure due to front brake disc scoring and continued brake pad material loss, indicating that the previously observed front brake deterioration has returned or worsened and creating a concerning recurrence rather than a simple progression of wear. At 53,245 miles on a six-year-old vehicle, the average annual mileage of approximately 8,874 miles falls within the expected range for its age, reflecting neither unusually high nor suspiciously low usage patterns. The testing interval between the 2026-02-23 pass and the 2025-02-25 pass was merely four weeks, suggesting regular testing but with no indication of accelerated degradation during that period. The gap between the 2026-02-23 failure and the previous successful test in March 2024 spans nearly eighteen months, yet the immediate return to failure in February 2026 indicates that the critical front brake issues have resurfaced, potentially accelerating wear beyond the normal consumption rate implied by the mileage figure alone. The front brake system requires particular attention given the documented history of pad thinning and disc scoring. During a test drive, the driver should monitor for any pulsating or spongy sensation through the brake pedal when applying pressure, particularly when traversing uneven surfaces where the worn pads encounter the reclaimed disc surface. A distinct knocking or grinding noise originating from the front brake assembly would confirm active wear, and the tester should verify that both front brake pads remain above minimum thickness thresholds throughout the journey. Given the recurring nature of these findings since mid-2025, replacement of the front brake pads and refurbishment of the discs is strongly advised before proceeding with any purchase. The rear boot release mechanism exhibits intermittent functionality that may require periodic adjustment or part replacement to.