2015 Citroen C1 1.0L Petrol · LS65 EWG

The most recent MOT inspection on 11 December 2025 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle is showing a clear trend of increasing suspension-related wear. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent passing record since 2019, the recent accumulation of advisories regarding anti-roll bar linkages and suspension arm bushes suggests that several rubber components are nearing the end of their serviceable life. The maintenance trend is currently moving towards a period of necessary component replacement, as the previous years focused primarily on tyre wear and brake issues, whereas the latest report indicates a broader degradation of the front-end suspension geometry. With only 50,049 miles recorded over approximately eleven years, this Citroen C1 has been driven an average of roughly 4,550 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the UK national average, suggesting the vehicle has likely been used for short, infrequent trips or has spent considerable periods stationary. While low mileage generally implies less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it often leads to specific age-related issues. In this case, the low usage profile is consistent with the observed tyre perishing and the tendency for brake components to bind or seize due to lack of regular thermal cycling and heavy use. During your test drive, you should pay close attention to the front end of the vehicle when navigating uneven road surfaces or speed bumps. Given the advisories for worn anti-roll bar linkage pins and suspension arm bushes, listen for any dull knocking, clunking, or rattling sounds originating from the front axle. These symptoms indicate that the rubber bushes have perished or lost their structural integrity, which can lead to imprecise steering and uneven tyre wear if left unaddressed. You should also monitor the braking performance closely. The history of binding brakes and axle imbalance suggests that the calipers or sliding pins may be prone to corrosion or sticking, so check for any pulling to one side during deceleration or a heavy, spongy pedal feel. Beyond the recorded defects, the low annual mileage necessitates a thorough physical inspection of age-related degradation. Examine the sidewalls of all tyres for signs of perishing, cracking, or dry rot, which can occur even if the tread depth remains sufficient. Check the underside of the vehicle for surface corrosion on the exhaust system and brake lines, which can accelerate when a car is not driven frequently. It is also advisable to verify the service history for evidence of calendar-based maintenance, such as oil changes and brake fluid flushes, as these are critical for low-mileage vehicles where fluid degradation occurs due to time rather than distance. Finally, ensure the 12V battery has been regularly maintained, as long periods of inactivity can lead to sulphation and reduced cranking reliability.