2019 DS DS3 1.2L Petrol · MH19 YOD

A pattern of emerging wear in the braking and steering systems has characterised the recent MOT history, despite the vehicle achieving a clean pass on 24 July 2026. While the 2026 test recorded no defects, the preceding 2025 inspection flagged several mechanical concerns, including imbalanced front brakes with a lazy offside front caliper and a worn steering column top bearing. This indicates a shift from the clean records seen in 2022 and 2023 toward a period of increasing component degradation that requires close monitoring. The vehicle has covered 44,559 miles over its seven-year lifespan, averaging approximately 6,366 miles per year. This represents a typical usage profile for a modern hatchback, suggesting the vehicle has not been subject to extreme high-mileage wear nor has it been left stationary for extended periods. Mechanically, this level of annual accumulation means that while major drivetrain components may not be heavily stressed, consumable items such as tyres, brake pads, and suspension bushes are reaching the expected stages of their service life. Prospective buyers should pay particular attention to the braking system and steering response during a test drive. The 2025 advisory regarding imbalanced front brakes and a lazy offside front caliper suggests the potential for uneven braking force or pulling to one side under heavy deceleration. It is essential to check for any pedal judder or a sensation of the brake pedal sticking or feeling inconsistent. Additionally, the reported wear on the steering column top bearing should be assessed by checking for any unusual play, clicking, or slight movement felt through the steering wheel when manoeuvring at low speeds or over uneven surfaces. Further inspection is required regarding the condition of the nearside front drive shaft CV boot and the tyres. The 2025 record noted a severely deteriorated CV boot with grease traces, which can lead to premature joint failure if the grease escapes. During a test drive, listen for rhythmic clicking sounds when turning the steering wheel fully to one side, which may indicate a failing joint. Finally, although the 2024 advisories for worn tyres were not repeated in 2025 or 2026, the tread depth and evenness of wear across all four tyres should be physically verified to ensure they are not approaching the legal limit or showing signs of misalignment.