2010 Citroen C4 1.7L Diesel · LC10 NZA

The Citroën C4 in question presents a clean MOT history, with the most recent test in September 2021 at 93,821 miles passing without any defects recorded. The absence of advisories or failures over this period suggests the vehicle has either been well-maintained or, more likely, has seen very limited use since then. Given the current date is July 2026, this represents a significant gap of over four years without an official inspection—a red flag for any buyer. While the lack of recorded issues on paper is reassuring, the extended period without testing raises questions about whether the car has been driven regularly or simply left in storage. Without a recent MOT, there’s no guarantee the vehicle hasn’t developed hidden wear, corrosion, or mechanical degradation in critical areas such as suspension components, brake systems, or exhaust emissions compliance. The mileage of 93,821 miles over 16 years equates to an average of just 5,864 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. This suggests either very light usage or prolonged periods of inactivity. The fact that the mileage remained static between the two September 2021 tests—both at 93,821 miles—further implies the car may not have been driven at all in the days or weeks leading up to the second, failed test. Such stagnation could accelerate issues like seized bearings, degraded fluids, or even structural corrosion from prolonged exposure to the elements. The low mileage does reduce wear on consumables like tyres and brake pads, but it also means the vehicle’s systems may not have been exercised enough to reveal latent problems. For a prospective buyer, the primary concern is the lack of recent maintenance verification. Given the age and the extended period without testing, a thorough inspection should focus on suspension components—particularly rubber bushes, coil springs, and ball joints—for signs of degradation or dry rot. The brake system, including calipers, discs, and hydraulic lines, should be checked for binding, corrosion, or fluid leaks, as these can develop silently when a car sits unused. Structural integrity is another critical area; look for rust penetration in wheel arches, sills, or underbody panels, especially if the vehicle has spent time in damp or salty conditions. Finally, verify that all fluid levels—brakes, coolant, and oil—are correct, as stagnant fluids can break down and cause long-term damage. The absence of recorded faults in the MOT history does not negate the need for a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic. The combination of low mileage and an outdated MOT suggests the car may have been neglected rather than meticulously cared for, and hidden issues could emerge under closer scrutiny. Buyers should treat this as a high-risk proposition unless they can confirm recent, independent servicing beyond the DVSA records.