2002 Citroen Saxo 1.1L Petrol · LL51 AEE

The Citroën Saxo’s most recent MOT, conducted just over 14 months ago at 60,482 miles, reveals a vehicle that passed but with two minor yet persistent issues: an inoperative offside registration lamp and a minor exhaust leak. While neither failure is critical, their recurrence—particularly the lamp fault—suggests either neglect in basic electrical checks or a recurring wiring issue that has not been properly addressed. The absence of major advisories or structural defects in prior tests indicates the vehicle has not suffered catastrophic failures, but the low mileage for its age raises questions about how thoroughly it has been maintained. The 2025 test’s minor faults, though not severe, warrant closer scrutiny to confirm they haven’t deteriorated further since. The recorded mileage of 60,482 miles over 24 years—approximately 2,520 miles annually—is unusually low for a vehicle of this age, suggesting it has spent extended periods stationary or seen very light use. There are no obvious gaps in MOT testing, with checks occurring roughly every 12 months, but the near-identical mileage between the 2023 and 2024 tests (56,918 to 59,940) implies the vehicle was likely off the road for several months before each test. This pattern could indicate storage without proper servicing, potentially accelerating wear on components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake systems due to prolonged immobility and lack of movement. Given the history, a prospective buyer should prioritise an inspection of the electrical system, particularly the stop lamp circuit and registration lamp wiring, to verify whether the 2025 faults have persisted or worsened. The minor exhaust leak, while not an immediate safety concern, should be examined for signs of corrosion or damage to the exhaust manifold or pipes, as this could indicate deeper issues if left unaddressed. The brakes, though not explicitly failed, should be checked for uneven wear or binding calipers, especially given the low mileage—this could suggest the vehicle has been driven sporadically without proper brake maintenance. Finally, the suspension should be assessed for worn bushes or sagging coil springs, as prolonged periods of inactivity can accelerate deterioration in these components. Rust around wheel arches, sills, and the subframe should also be inspected, as this vehicle’s age increases the risk of structural corrosion compromising safety.