2015 Citroen C3 1.6L Diesel · LP15 AYV

The most recent DVSA examination on 29 October 2025 resulted in a Pass, although it was only achieved two days after a Fail on 27 October 2025, which is worth noting. The failure was caused by a nearside headlamp aim being too low, classified as a Major defect, and this was rectified immediately to allow the subsequent pass. Both records from late 2025 carry the same advisory regarding offside rear tyre perishing or cracking, alongside a minor for an inoperative registration plate lamp. Looking at the broader pattern across 2022 through 2025, the vehicle has demonstrated a generally stable but slightly deteriorating maintenance trend, with recurring minor windscreen damage noted on multiple tests, a headlamp aim issue appearing in both 2023 and 2025, and the more recent tyre perishing advisory suggesting age-related rubber degradation rather than acute mechanical neglect. The recorded mileage of 78,613 miles across approximately eleven years of service equates to an average annual mileage of around 7,147 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and segment. There are no obvious extended gaps in the MOT history that would suggest prolonged periods of standing, nor any indications of unusually rapid accumulation that would point to excessive high-mileage wear. The MOT entries from February 2022 through to late 2025 imply consistent year-on-year use, which is generally favourable for preventing the sort of calendar-based degradation that affects low-use vehicles, such as seized brake calipers, oxidised brake discs, and dried suspension bushes. That said, at over 78,000 miles, the major mechanical consumables including the timing belt, clutch, suspension components, and exhaust system will all be approaching or have already required attention. Given the recurring headlamp aim defect, a prospective buyer should verify the condition of the headlamp levelling mechanism and the adjustment screws on both sides, as well as checking for any condensation within the headlamp units which can affect beam pattern. The windscreen stone chip advisories from 2023 and 2024 suggest ongoing vulnerability to minor impact damage, and while both were deemed not to affect the driver's view, the chip should be monitored to prevent it propagating into a crack, particularly in cold weather. The advisory regarding the bonnet catch being held by wood and screws is a particular concern, as it indicates a non-standard improvised repair to a critical safety item; this should be thoroughly inspected to confirm the catch is fully functional and that the fix is genuinely secure, ideally replaced with a proper OEM mechanism before purchase. On a physical inspection, the offside rear tyre perishing noted in late 2025 warrants close attention, as tyres on an eleven-year-old vehicle commonly suffer from sidewall cracking and rubber degradation regardless of tread depth, so all four tyres should be examined for age-related deterioration. A test drive should focus on listening for any suspension clonks or knocking over uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn anti-roll bar bushes, drop links, or strut top mount bearings common to the C3 at this mileage. The brakes should be assessed for any binding or pulling, the exhaust for any blowing or corrosion around the rear silencer and joints, and the coolant and brake fluid should be considered overdue for renewal on a calendar basis given the vehicle's age. Finally, the 12V battery, auxiliary drive belt, and cabin filtration should be checked as part of a standard pre-purchase assessment for a Citroen of this vintage and mileage.