2004 Citroen Xsara 1.6L Petrol · ML54 YYB

The vehicle remains roadworthy, but the maintenance history indicates a trend of escalating mechanical wear and structural degradation. While the most recent test in October 2025 at 165,634 miles passed, the record reveals a persistent nearside oil leak and corroded rear shock absorbers. The transition from a failure in October 2024 to a pass a year later suggests that the owner is reactive to MOT failures, yet the recurring presence of leaks indicates a lack of proactive seal maintenance. At 165,634 miles over 22 years, the Xsara averages approximately 7,500 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. The data shows consistent usage patterns with roughly 5,000 to 7,000 miles covered between each annual inspection from 2022 to 2025. This steady mileage suggests the car has not sat stationary for long periods, though the high age of the vehicle means that rubber-based components and metal brackets are likely reaching the end of their service life. A buyer must prioritise inspecting the structural integrity of the offside sill and the front and rear areas, as the 2023 report already flagged corrosion. Although structural rigidity was not compromised at that time, rust on older Citroen models tends to accelerate rapidly if not treated. The history of a deteriorated offside front outer CV boot, which persisted from 2023 through 2024, indicates that the drivetrain components require a close visual check for grease loss or imminent joint failure. The persistent gearbox oil leak noted across three consecutive years is a point of concern. While the tester currently classifies it as not excessive, the ongoing nature suggests a weeping seal that will eventually fail completely. A physical inspection should also verify the rear shock absorbers for signs of fluid leakage and ensure the front track rod end that caused the 2024 failure has been properly replaced and torqued to specification.