2016 Citroen C4 1.2L Petrol · LG02 AJG

The 2016 Citroën C4 received its latest MOT on 2026-04-08, which passed with two advisories—an oil leak that was deemed not excessive and a defective exhaust mounting. The MOT history over the preceding four years shows a consistent pattern of passing tests, with advisories recurring but not escalating into failures. The front brake pads have been noted as wearing thin in two separate tests, indicating gradual wear rather than sudden deterioration, and the oil leak remains a persistent but manageable issue. While the registration plate deterioration is a minor cosmetic concern, it does not affect roadworthiness or safety. The overall maintenance trend appears stable, with no signs of worsening mechanical issues, though the recurring advisories suggest routine checks and potential preventative maintenance are advised to mitigate long-term risks. The recorded mileage of 29,425 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years represents a notably low annual usage rate of around 2,942 miles per year, which is unusual for its age. Such low mileage can result from infrequent use, long periods of the vehicle being stationary, or a combination of both. When a car stands for extended periods, components such as the brake systems, suspension, and drivetrain can experience accelerated wear due to corrosion, binding calipers, or uneven tyre wear patterns from static friction. Additionally, fluids like brake fluid and transmission fluid degrade over time due to evaporation and chemical breakdown, even without active use. The absence of higher mileage suggests that the vehicle may not have undergone significant operational stress, but this also raises concerns about potential neglect in fluid servicing and general maintenance during periods of inactivity. For the prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect are the front brake system and the oil leak, as these have been recurring advisories. The thin front brake pads suggest that the brake discs may also be wearing unevenly or showing signs of glazing, which can lead to reduced braking efficiency or even failure if not addressed. During a test drive, listen for a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which could indicate metal-to-metal contact between the pads and discs. Also, check for a pulsating or vibrating sensation through the pedal, which may signal warped discs or binding calipers. The oil leak should be investigated further to determine its source—common culprits include the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing gasket, or timing chain components. A visual inspection of the engine bay for oil stains and a check under the vehicle for dark, viscous fluid will help identify the leak’s location. If the leak is confirmed, a thorough inspection of the timing system and related components is recommended, as oil contamination can lead to premature wear of the chain or sprockets. Beyond the advisories, the vehicle’s tyre condition presents another important consideration. The 2023 MOT noted front tyres worn close to the legal limit and slightly damaged or cracked, which could compromise traction and safety. Tyres that have been stationary for extended periods may develop dry rot, leading to cracking or delamination of the sidewall, which can result in sudden blowouts. Inspect the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing, such as fine cracks or bulges, and ensure the tread depth is above the legal minimum of 1.6mm. If the tyres are significantly worn or damaged, they should be replaced to maintain road grip, especially in adverse weather conditions. Additionally, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, it is prudent to check the 12-volt battery for signs of corrosion or poor connections, as standing vehicles can lead to battery drain or sulphation. The battery should be tested for voltage and capacity, and if necessary, replaced to prevent starting issues or electrical system failures. Lastly, since the vehicle has not been driven frequently, consider verifying the service history for time-based maintenance tasks such as fluid top-ups, brake fluid flushes, and suspension component inspections, as these can degrade over time even without mileage accumulation.