2015 Citroen DS4 1.6L Diesel · NA15 AVL

Front‑end components dominate the MOT history of this 2015 Citroën DS4, with major failures recorded in 2022 for a fractured front coil spring and excessive play in the front track‑rod end, compounded by repeated headlamp‑aim rejections and a persistent registration‑plate lamp fault. The most recent 2023 test was passed, but it left an advisory for an oil leak and for front‑brake disc and pad wear, indicating that while the vehicle cleared the test, the front suspension and lighting systems have required attention in recent years. Earlier records also show tyre‑wear advisories on both front wheels, suggesting a pattern of front‑end wear that should be investigated before purchase. At 86,307 mi the car averages roughly 7,800 mi per annum over its eleven‑year life, a mileage rate that sits comfortably within typical usage for a vehicle of this age. MOTs have been recorded almost annually since 2018, with no long gaps that would imply prolonged storage, so the mileage appears to reflect regular, moderate use rather than periods of inactivity or sudden high‑kilometre bursts. This steady accumulation means consumables such as suspension bushings, brake components and tyres will be approaching the latter stages of their service life. Prospective buyers should give particular focus to the front suspension. A fractured coil spring and worn track‑rod end ball joint are serious safety concerns; on a test drive listen for clunking or knocking over bumps, feel for any looseness or wandering in the steering, and inspect for uneven tyre wear that could betray mis‑alignment. Verify that the coil springs are intact and that the track‑rod ends show no excessive play when the steering wheel is rocked at full lock. The headlamp‑aim failures also merit a visual check – ensure both low‑beam units illuminate within the legal pattern and that the registration‑plate lamp illuminates reliably. The brake system also warrants close scrutiny. The 2023 advisory flags a front disc that is pitted or scored and pads that are thin, so assess pedal feel for any sponginess, pulsation or judder under braking, and listen for squeal that may indicate worn linings. The oil leak noted in the same test should be located – look for fresh oil around the valve cover gasket, oil filter housing or under the engine bay, and confirm that the oil level is correct and that there is no smoke or oil on the exhaust. Finally, given the repeated tyre‑wear advisories on the front wheels, inspect the tread depth and sidewall condition of all four tyres and budget for replacement if they are close to the legal limit. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection covering these areas will clarify whether the remaining life of the DS4’s critical front‑end components justifies the acquisition.