2014 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · MJ14 AVB

The Citroën C4’s most recent MOT, conducted on 29 January 2025 at 119,871 miles , passed without any defects—a rare clean result in this vehicle’s history. However, the preceding test on 28 January 2025 at 119,786 miles revealed a cluster of critical failures, including missing road wheel fixings on three wheels, excessive oil leakage from the engine , and multiple non-functional lamps . This suggests the car was driven with known defects between tests, a concerning pattern given the severity of the issues. The last clean pass before this was 15 December 2023 , but even then, the vehicle was failing on thin brake pads —a recurring problem that should have prompted immediate attention. The trend is clearly worsening , with structural and mechanical failures accumulating despite passing tests, indicating either deferred repairs or neglect. The mileage accumulation of 9,989 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a 12-year-old vehicle, though the 195-mile gap between the two January 2025 tests suggests the car was driven in a failed state for at least that distance. More striking is the 6,367-mile jump between the December 2023 pass and the January 2025 failures , covering roughly six months—far longer than the usual 12-month MOT interval. This rapid progression in faults, particularly the oil leak and missing wheel fixings , implies either aggressive driving conditions or prolonged disregard for maintenance. The absence of any MOT records between 3 December 2022 and 15 December 2023 also raises questions about whether the vehicle was exempt (e.g., SORN) or simply not tested, leaving a critical gap in its service history. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the suspension and wheel fixings , given the missing road wheel fixings in January 2025—a serious structural risk if not addressed. The excessive oil leak demands urgent attention, as prolonged engine oil loss can lead to catastrophic failure; verify the source and confirm repairs. Brake system components remain a weak point, with thin pads and worn discs flagged repeatedly, including the central rear disc noted as pitted in 2022. The anti-roll bar ball joint dust covers were also severely deteriorated by that time, suggesting potential bushings or joint wear that could affect handling. Finally, the tyre condition —with exposed ply and below-legal tread—was a persistent issue, hinting at either aggressive driving or a history of underinflation. These are not minor consumables but indicators of broader neglect.