2009 Citroen C1 1.0L Petrol · LB09 WCC

The most recent MOT on 15 September 2025 resulted in a pass, which is a positive immediate indicator, but it must be read in context against the failed test recorded only three days earlier on 12 September 2025. That failure cited dangerous defects on both front brake discs, where the inner surfaces were seriously compromised and likely to fail imminently under braking load, alongside a major exhaust leak at the rear likely to elevate emissions. Both defects were rectified to allow the retest pass, but the recurrence of front brake disc concerns across multiple tests points to an ongoing wear pattern rather than an isolated repair. The 2025 pass also carried advisories regarding corrosion of the front sub-frame and the rear suspension component mounting prescribed area, both assessed as not yet compromising structural rigidity. These are early-stage corrosion items typical of a 17 year old vehicle and will require periodic inspection to ensure they do not progress. The recorded mileage of 144,802 miles over approximately 17 years equates to an average of around 8,500 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a small city car of this vintage and suggests consistent use rather than long periods of standing. There are no significant gaps or sudden mileage jumps evident from the MOT history, indicating the vehicle has been in regular service throughout its life. Consistent usage of this nature is mechanically beneficial in some respects, as it prevents the issues associated with prolonged standing such as severe brake disc corrosion, perished rubber components, and battery failure, but it does mean that higher mileage wear items including suspension bushes, engine mounts, clutch components, and braking hardware will have accrued proportionally more fatigue than a lower mileage equivalent. The MOT history reveals a cluster of recurring concerns which warrant a thorough physical inspection prior to purchase. The 2024 test flagged nearside front lower suspension arm pin or bush wear as a major defect, suggesting a repair or replacement was carried out; it is essential to verify the quality and provenance of this work, as worn lower arm bushes manifest as clonking noises over speed humps, imprecise steering, and uneven inner-edge front tyre wear. The anti-roll bar linkage wear noted in 2023 should similarly be confirmed as rectified, with any residual play producing body roll noise and vague handling. Brake disc wear has been a persistent advisory theme from 2022 onwards, and given that both front discs were classed as dangerously compromised just prior to the most recent pass, the replacement units should be inspected for run-out, scoring, and pad condition, while the rear nearside binding brake identified as a major defect in 2022 should be checked for free operation and equalised handbrake pull. Exhaust integrity has also been an issue, with a broken centre pipe hanger in 2022 and a more recent leak; the full system should be examined for additional corrosion, particularly at mounting points and joints, and the catalytic converter and rear silencer checked for structural soundness given the vehicle's exposure to road salt. Beyond the recorded MOT items, a prospective buyer of a high mileage 17 year old Citroen C1 should undertake several age and usage appropriate checks. The front sub-frame and rear suspension mounting corrosion advisories should be physically inspected with a torch and probe to assess the depth and spread of corrosion, as these areas are prone to progression and could threaten structural rigidity if neglected. The shock absorbers flagged as corroded in 2024 should be checked for hydraulic weeping and damping effectiveness by pushing down firmly on each corner and observing the recovery. Tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking and perishing given the vehicle's age, even where tread depth remains legal, and the recent advisory regarding nearside rear tyre damage should be confirmed resolved. Time-based servicing items not visible on MOT records should also be confirmed, namely the age of the 12V battery which typically fails between five and seven years, the condition and age of the coolant, brake fluid, and engine oil with reference to service book stamps, and the operation of the cooling fan and thermostat. Given its age, the timing chain or belt replacement history should be verified according to manufacturer schedule, as failure on the three cylinder engine would result in significant engine damage. Finally, a thorough test drive over varied road surfaces should be undertaken to identify any clonks, knocks, steering vagueness, or braking irregularities that may not be apparent during a stationary inspection.