2015 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · LD65 CFP

The most recent MOT test for the 2015 Citroën C4 occurred on 2024-11-11, resulting in a clean pass with no recorded defects. While the vehicle’s MOT history shows a pattern of passing tests, the presence of several persistent advisories—particularly around tyre wear, suspension components, and brakes—suggests that while the car is currently roadworthy, it has experienced recurring issues that warrant closer attention. The advisories from 2018 onwards, including dangerous brake pad wear and significant tyre degradation, indicate that the vehicle has not been fully maintained to industry standards, with some critical components nearing or exceeding their operational thresholds. The fact that the car passed the latest test despite these advisories implies either effective corrective action or that the defects are not yet severe enough to fail, but the trend over the past several years does not reflect a stable maintenance regime. The 2024 test’s clean slate may be misleading if the prior advisories were not addressed promptly, as they could escalate with continued use. The vehicle’s mileage of 70,968 miles over approximately 11 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,452 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the recorded mileage does not indicate any particularly aggressive driving or high wear patterns, but it also does not suggest minimal usage either. The absence of significant mileage gaps could imply either consistent ownership or periods of storage without proper maintenance, both of which can affect component longevity. From a mechanical perspective, the suspension advisories from 2019—particularly regarding worn suspension arm bushes—are particularly concerning, as these components degrade over time and can lead to uneven tyre wear, clunking noises in the suspension during cornering or over bumps, and potential alignment issues. Similarly, the repeated tyre wear advisories suggest that the vehicle may have been driven with improper alignment or excessive load distribution, which can accelerate tyre degradation and increase the risk of blowouts. To proceed with a purchase, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the Citroën C4, focusing on the areas highlighted by the MOT history and common wear patterns for this model and age. First and foremost, the brakes should be examined closely, particularly the rear brake discs, which were noted as pitted and scored in prior tests. Look for signs of binding calipers, which can cause uneven brake pad wear or a shuddering sensation when braking, especially on the rear. Inspect the brake fluid reservoir for contamination or fluid degradation, as brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, reducing its effectiveness. The suspension should be checked for excessive play in the front suspension arms, which could lead to clunking noises or a rough ride. Listen for any unusual noises during a test drive, particularly when driving over bumps or at higher speeds, as this may indicate worn suspension bushes or other components failing. The tyres should be thoroughly examined for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even with moderate mileage due to prolonged exposure to the elements. The tread depth should be verified, ensuring that any remaining wear is evenly distributed and that the legal minimum of 1.6mm is maintained. The vehicle’s exhaust system should be inspected for leaks or excessive noise, as emissions-related issues could become more problematic with further use. Additionally, the battery should be tested for health, as the 12V system may have been under strain from repeated MOT advisories related to electrical components. Finally, the child seat advisories indicate that the rear seats may have been obstructed, which could have hindered full inspection of the brake system or other critical areas during MOT testing. If the child seat was removed, it is advisable to verify that all rear seat belts are functional and that the brake system has not suffered from prolonged obstruction. Given the vehicle’s age, it is also prudent to check the service history for fluid servicing, such as the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, as these should be replaced at specified intervals to prevent degradation and failure.