2018 Citroen C3 Aircross 1.2L Petrol · MM18 AXZ

The most recent MOT test on the 2018 Citroën C3 Aircross, conducted on 2026-05-08, resulted in a pass with two advisories that warrant careful attention. The overall maintenance trend over the past five years appears stable, with no failed MOTs beyond the 2021 test, which was a dangerous failure due to a severe tyre defect. The advisories from the latest test—near-side front tyre wear and offside rear fuel vapour/purge canister housing damage—suggest that while the vehicle has maintained roadworthiness, some wear and minor mechanical stress have been present. The consistent passing of previous MOTs indicates that the owner has likely addressed critical issues promptly, though the recurring tyre-related advisories, particularly the bulge in the offside rear tyre from 2021, highlight a potential history of underinflation, excessive load, or structural tyre damage that should be monitored closely. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 84,001 miles at the time of this assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 10,500 miles per year, which is typical for a car of this age and class. This level of mileage suggests moderate to heavy use, particularly in the later years, which can accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and tyre treads. The absence of significant mileage gaps indicates the vehicle has been in regular service, though the rapid accumulation of miles in the last few years may have contributed to the observed tyre and suspension wear. For a 2018 model, this is not excessively high, but the tyre advisories—especially the bulge—demonstrate that the owner should have been particularly vigilant about tyre maintenance, including regular checks for bulges, cracks, or uneven wear patterns. Given the MOT history, the buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the tyres, particularly the offside rear tyre, which previously failed due to a structural bulge. On a test drive, listen for unusual noises such as a sudden loss of air pressure (indicating a tyre leak) or a loud, irregular thumping from the rear, which could signal a bulge developing further. Inspect the tyre for any visible cracks, delamination, or uneven tread wear, as these can precede catastrophic failure. The near-side front tyre advisory suggests monitoring for further wear progression, with a focus on checking the tread depth and sidewall integrity, as worn tyres on one side can lead to handling issues and reduced grip. Additionally, the fuel vapour/purge canister housing damage may indicate previous exposure to fuel vapour leaks, so inspect the area for signs of oil contamination or fluid leaks around the engine bay. Beyond the MOT advisories, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection of the vehicle’s mechanical and structural components. Given the age and mileage, check for signs of tyre sidewall perishing or cracking, which can weaken the tyre structure over time. Inspect the brake system for corrosion on the discs, particularly on the offside rear where previous wear was noted, and ensure there is no binding in the calipers or excessive brake dust accumulation. The suspension should be examined for signs of bush wear, coil spring failure, or alignment issues, as the advisories may hint at underlying wear in these areas. A practical check of the 12V battery health is advisable, especially if the vehicle has been left standing for extended periods, as standing corrosion or battery degradation can lead to electrical system failures. Finally, verify that the vehicle’s service book has been updated, particularly for fluid servicing intervals, as the 2018 model’s engine and transmission fluids should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations, ideally within the last 2–3 years to prevent sludge buildup or internal wear.