2007 Citroen Xsara 1.6L Petrol · MD07 ABX

The most recent MOT on 19 May 2026 was a pass, albeit with advisories concerning the front brake disc and pads and the off‑side front tyre tread depth. Over the last three years the vehicle has alternated between passes and fails, the failures largely being driven by minor electrical and wiper faults and a major split CV‑joint boot on the near‑side front drive shaft. The recurrence of brake wear advisories each year indicates a steady progression of component thinning, while the other faults have been rectified or are now only advisory. Overall the maintenance trend can be described as stable but with predictable wear items that are approaching the end of their service life. At 122 201 mi the car averages roughly 6 400 mi per annum, a usage pattern that sits squarely within normal private‑owner limits for a 2007 model. There are no obvious periods of excessive mileage accumulation that would suggest aggressive short‑term abuse, nor are there large gaps that would imply prolonged storage. Consequently the wear observed on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components is consistent with its age and mileage rather than being the result of unusual stress. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front braking system. The disc is reported as pitted and scored, and the pads are described as thin; this combination will manifest as a reduction in braking efficiency, increased pedal travel and a possible pulsation or squeal under hard braking. Measuring disc thickness and pad remaining material, or having a workshop conduct a brake resurfacing or disc replacement together with new pads, is advisable before committing to purchase. The off‑side front tyre is close to the legal tread limit and shows edge wear, which often points to mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes or uneven tyre pressures. During a test drive the driver should feel for any steering pull, vibration at around 50 mph, or a thudding sensation when cornering, and a tyre inspection should confirm uniform tread depth and sidewall integrity. Additional items to verify include the near‑side front CV‑joint boot, which was recorded as split; a compromised boot can allow dirt ingress, leading to joint wear, clicking noises on acceleration or deceleration, and eventual joint failure. Inspect the boot for cracks and check for grease leakage or play in the joint. The anti‑roll bar linkage dust cover and the wiper arms were previously flagged as major faults; ensure the linkage moves freely without excessive play and that the wipers now clear the screen effectively. The minor exhaust leak at the rear box should be examined for soot staining or a faint ticking noise, as a deteriorating leak can affect emissions and fuel efficiency. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, inspect the outer sill corrosion, verify the 12 V battery’s cranking performance, confirm that all fluid levels (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid) have been refreshed within the past 12 months, and look for any signs of rust on suspension arms or under‑body panels that could indicate prolonged standing. A full service history with recent brake and tyre replacements would further reassure the buyer of the car’s roadworthiness.