2021 Citroen C3 1.2L Petrol · LA70 UEH

Front braking components are the defining theme of this Citroen C3's record, culminating in a dangerous failure on 30 May 2026 when the front brake pads were found worn to less than 1.5 mm thickness, a defect serious enough to fail the test outright. The vehicle was retested the same day and passed, indicating the pads were replaced promptly, but the episode did not arise without warning: the 2023 test had already flagged front brake discs worn though not excessively, and the 2024 test noted a nearside front tyre worn close to the legal limit on its edge. Alongside the 2026 pass, two further items were recorded: a front anti-roll bar pin or bush worn but not yet causing excessive movement, and a minor defect for a brake lever not releasing correctly. The overall trend is therefore one of recurring wear items concentrated at the front axle rather than structural or corrosion concerns, but the progression from advisory-level disc wear to a dangerous pad failure within three years shows these components have been allowed to run close to their limits. At 78,582 miles in roughly five years, the car has averaged close to 15,700 miles annually, well above the typical UK figure for a small hatchback. Tests have been conducted consistently each spring with no significant gaps, so the mileage accumulation appears steady rather than the product of a sudden surge. This usage pattern is consistent with sustained regular driving, which accelerates wear on exactly the consumables the record highlights: brake pads, discs, tyres, and suspension bushes. A front anti-roll bar bush showing wear at this mileage is unremarkable for a car worked this hard, but buyers should recognise that other suspension and drivetrain components of similar age and exposure may be approaching comparable condition even where not yet flagged. On a test drive, the braking system deserves the closest attention. Confirm the replacement front pads and discs feel strong and progressive, with no judder through the pedal or steering wheel under firm braking from speed, which would suggest disc warping or uneven wear. The recorded minor defect of a brake lever not releasing correctly warrants a specific check: after several brake applications, verify the car rolls freely and does not pull to one side, and feel for any dragging sensation or heat smell after a short drive, as a binding brake will generate excess heat and accelerate pad wear. Ask for evidence of what was done to rectify this item, since it was still listed on the passing certificate. Regarding the front anti-roll bar bush advisory, listen for a light knock or rattle from the front suspension over broken surfaces and speed bumps, and check for any vagueness or body roll inconsistency through corners. This is a relatively inexpensive repair, but its presence alongside the braking history suggests the front end generally merits a careful inspection. Examine the front tyres for edge wear similar to that noted in 2024, as repeated shoulder wear can point to tracking or geometry issues. Finally, given the high annual mileage, request documentation for the brake work carried out in May 2026 and budget for continued consumable replacement at shorter intervals than a lower-mileage example would demand.