2014 Citroen C4 2.0L Diesel · LS64 LBF

The latest MOT test on the 2014 Citroën C4 conducted on 2026-04-29 resulted in a failure, with the most critical issues being the inoperative registration plate lamp and a severely compromised near-side front outer drive shaft constant velocity (CV) boot, which has allowed dirt ingress and compromised the joint’s lubrication. This follows a pattern of recurring failures related to the CV boots, particularly on the front outer joints, where minor and major defects were documented in previous MOTs, indicating a persistent and worsening mechanical failure. While the 2025 test also highlighted thin rear brake pads and deteriorated anti-roll bar ball joint dust covers, the 2026 failure’s severity—particularly the CV boot split and lamp failure—suggests a deterioration in both drivetrain integrity and basic vehicle functionality that requires immediate attention. The advisories regarding child seat positioning and tyre wear close to legal limits, while not failing the test, underscore ongoing operational concerns that should not be overlooked. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 101,393 miles at 12 years old represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,449 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the presence of severe CV boot failures in multiple MOTs—particularly on the front outer joints—suggests either aggressive driving conditions, poor maintenance, or a design flaw that accelerates wear in these critical drivetrain components. The rapid accumulation of CV boot failures over several years implies that the vehicle has likely experienced significant stress on the transmission system, potentially from rough roads, frequent starts/stops, or inadequate lubrication. Additionally, the exposed ply on the offside front tyre from the 2022 MOT failure indicates severe tyre damage, which could stem from underinflation, improper alignment, or excessive wear patterns that warrant further investigation. Given the recurring CV boot failures and the critical nature of these components, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the drivetrain, focusing on the front CV joints, driveshafts, and their associated seals. During a test drive, listen for unusual noises from the front axle area, particularly clunking or grinding sounds that may indicate CV joint bearing wear or misalignment. Inspect the CV boots visually for bulging, cracks, or tears, and check for excessive play or vibration when the vehicle is in motion. The exposed ply on the offside front tyre suggests that the tyre may have been compromised long before the MOT failure, so replacing this tyre is strongly advised to prevent further damage to the vehicle’s suspension or alignment. Additionally, the thin rear brake pads and anti-roll bar ball joint dust covers from previous MOTs indicate that brake maintenance and suspension component health should be monitored closely, with potential servicing recommended to address wear progression before it leads to more costly repairs. For the buyer, the tyre advisories from recent MOTs—particularly the near-side front and rear tyres worn close to the legal limit—should prompt a full tyre inspection, including sidewall condition for cracks or perishing, which can weaken the tyre structure over time. Given the vehicle’s age and usage profile, it is prudent to check the tyre sidewall for signs of age-related degradation, as rubber can harden and become brittle even if the tread remains legal. The registration plate lamp failure is a straightforward but critical issue, as it poses a safety risk during low-light conditions. Replacing the lamp is a low-cost repair that should be addressed immediately to ensure compliance with legal requirements. Lastly, while the child seat advisories do not affect the vehicle’s roadworthiness, they are a practical consideration for future use, as they may limit the vehicle’s suitability for child passenger safety. The buyer should also verify that the service history aligns with the manufacturer’s recommended intervals, particularly for fluid servicing such as brake fluid, differential fluid, and transmission fluid, which can degrade over time even without mileage accumulation. A comprehensive inspection of the suspension, including coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, should also be conducted to identify any hidden wear or corrosion that may not have been flagged in the MOT.