2020 Citroen C4 Cactus 1.2L Petrol · LP69 KYK

A consistent pattern of roadworthiness emerges from the recorded DVSA tests, with four passes and a single failure documented since 2023. The only recorded defect occurred on 2024-02-09, when both headlamps were identified as having an aim too high, resulting in a fail under section 4.1.2 (a). Notably, a pass was also recorded on the same date immediately after, suggesting the lamps were adjusted during the same visit and the vehicle subsequently retook and passed inspection without further recorded defects. Across the 2025-02-14 and 2026-02-06 tests, no advisories or defects have been logged, leaving the most recent record free from outstanding mechanical concerns at the point of test. The usage profile is unusually light for a six-year-old vehicle, with 29,057 recorded miles equating to approximately 4,843 miles annually. There are no recorded gaps between annual tests, indicating the vehicle has been kept on the road and presented for inspection consistently since 2023. The low annual mileage means that wear-related items such as brake friction materials, tyres, and suspension components are likely to have aged more through calendar years than through mechanical use. Long intervals between drives can also promote surface corrosion on brake discs, particularly the rear drums or discs commonly fitted to C4 Cactus variants, and may accelerate ageing of rubber components such as bushes and boots, regardless of odometer reading. The only mechanical concern to investigate further is the headlamp aim issue, which on the C4 Cactus is commonly tied to the manual or automatic levelling mechanism, linkage wear, or simple adjustment drift from suspension settlement. On inspection, both headlamps should be checked for symmetry of beam pattern and the operation of any levelling switch, typically located on the dashboard near the lighting controls. The vehicle should be parked on level ground with any unusual lean or sag at the rear noted, as uneven loading or weak rear coil springs can alter beam trajectory. On a test drive, pay attention to any pulling to one side under braking, uneven ride height, or knocking from the rear suspension, all of which could indirectly influence headlamp aim over time. Beyond the recorded items, a C4 Cactus of this age and mileage should be examined for the known weaknesses of the platform, including the rear torsion beam bush condition, front anti-roll bar drop link play, and the integrity of the plastic body cladding and Airbump panels which can mask underlying corrosion at the lower sills and wheel arches. On the test drive, listen for clonking over uneven surfaces, particularly at low speed over speed humps, and feel for any vagueness or knocking through the steering, which would point to worn suspension linkages rather than the headlamp issue. Inspect the underside thoroughly for any bubbling under the plastic trim, as corrosion beneath the cladding can progress unseen. Finally, check that all warning lamps extinguish promptly on startup, that the clutch action is firm without slip, and that the climate control and infotainment systems function without fault, as electronic gremlins are a more typical concern on lightly used modern vehicles than mechanical wear.