2010 Citroen C3 1.6L Diesel · LS10 UNP

The most recent MOT on 18 June 2026 recorded a pass, but it was accompanied by a simultaneous failure for the same date that highlighted a major off‑side track‑rod end ball‑joint with excessive play and a severely damaged nearside track‑rod dust cover, together with advisories for rear‑exhaust mounting and front‑tyre edge wear. Over the last six years the pattern has moved from clean passes in 2022‑2023 to a series of major failures in 2024‑2026, indicating a deteriorating maintenance trend rather than a stable or improving one. At 108 618 miles the car averages roughly 6 800 miles per year, which is typical for a sixteen‑year‑old Citroën C3. The mileage does not suggest any periods of extreme use or long-term storage, but the relatively modest annual distance means that wear on consumables will be more a function of calendar age than high‑kilometre stress. Consequently, components such as rubber bushings, tyre sidewalls and seals are likely to have aged in place rather than being worn out by mileage alone. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the steering and suspension. The off‑side track‑rod end ball‑joint play will manifest as a loose feeling in the steering column, especially when turning at low speed, and may produce a clunk or knock from the front end. The nearside dust cover damage means dirt can infiltrate the ball‑joint, accelerating wear; inspect the joint for excessive movement and any leaking grease. The rear‑exhaust mounting defect can cause a rattling noise under acceleration or when the vehicle is at idle, and may allow exhaust fumes to escape near the cabin. Front tyre edge wear on both sides suggests aggressive cornering or mis‑alignment; verify tread depth across the width and look for cupping or sidewall cracking. The advisory on front brake disc wear, although not yet excessive, should be checked for any shudder or pulsation when braking, and the disc surface should be examined for scoring. The 2025 emissions failure and the 2024 engine MIL fault indicate possible underlying engine management issues; request a live data readout to confirm that the fault codes have been cleared and that the catalytic converter and oxygen sensors are functioning within specification. Finally, the incorrect colour of the rear direction indicators and the inoperative registration plate lamp must be rectified, as they are safety‑critical items. Given the vehicle’s age, a thorough visual and tactile inspection is essential. Examine all tyres for sidewall perishing, dry rot or embedded objects, especially the off‑side rear tyre that previously recorded a nail and damage. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and have the 12 V battery load‑tested, as batteries over ten years often lose capacity. Inspect coolant, brake and power‑steering fluids for colour change or particulate contamination and consider a full service if the last calendar change is unknown. Look for rust on the chassis, wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and verify that the suspension bushes and coil springs are free of cracks or excessive play. Confirm that the service book shows regular oil changes and that any outstanding recalls for the C3 have been addressed. Addressing these points will give a clear picture of the car’s roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it back to a reliable state.