2012 Citroen C3 1.6L Diesel · ND12 SVS
2012 Citroen C3 (1.6L, diesel). First registered 03 Jul 2012. Recorded mileage 74,046 miles. MOT valid until 26 Jan 2027. Taxed until 01 Feb 2027.
- Make & Model
- CITROEN C3
- Year / Origin
- 2012 · Newcastle
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Valid until 26 Jan 2027
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Feb 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 74,046 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
ND12 SVS Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 19/01/2026
- 74,046 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- No defects recorded at the latest MOT
- Recurring brakes items (4 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
ND12 SVS MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2012 Citroen C3 (ND12 SVS) between January 2024 and January 2026.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 19 January 2026 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Brakes (4 issues), Windscreen (1 issue), Steering (1 issue), Lighting (1 issue). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 4 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
Recorded failure items include: “Offside Track rod end ball joint has excessive play (2.1.3 (b) (i))”; “Front Windscreen washer not working (3.5 (a))”.
ND12 SVS Mileage History
- 16/01/202467,520 mi
- 21/01/202570,705 mi+3,185 mi
- 22/01/202570,705 mi
- 19/01/202674,043 mi+3,338 mi
- 19/01/202674,046 mi+3 mi
Average of roughly 3,246 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
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Known faults for Citroën Citroën C3 (Mk2)
Our database tracks 4 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Good
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
A sensible, low-mileage diesel choice if the service history is complete. While the mileage is excellent for the age, the recent minor MOT failures suggest routine maintenance items may need frequent attention moving forward.
When inspecting this C3, pay close attention to the reasons for the MOT failures in 2025 and 2026; although these were resolved before the pass, they often point to consumable items like bulbs, wipers, or tyre tread. Ask the seller for a full service history to ensure the diesel engine has had regular oil changes to prevent injector issues.
Given the age, verify if the timing belt has been replaced, as these are typically due every 10 years or 100,000 miles. Check for any oil leaks around the turbocharger, which is a common wear point on diesel engines of this era.
The 1.6cc diesel engine is designed for efficiency, likely achieving 55-65 mpg on mixed routes. The road tax band for this 2012 model is generally low, though insurance groups can vary significantly based on your personal profile and location.
Annual maintenance costs are average for a French hatchback, though diesel-specific parts like the DPF (Diesel Part Filter) can be expensive if neglected. Expect an estimated annual running cost of roughly £900-£1,200.
Check the tyres and suspension components for wear, as the MOT history suggests the car may be prone to minor mechanical-related failures. Inspect the interior for any signs of damp, which can occasionally affect older older C3 models.
Since the most recent MOT failure occurred at just 74,043 miles, ensure the work that caused the failure was carried out professionally rather than with a quick fix. Test the clutch engagement, as diesel torque puts strain on components.
This 2012 Citroen C3 sits at approximately 74,000 miles, which is significantly below the national average for a 14-year-old diesel. The vehicle shows a consistent record of passing MOTs, though the last two tests resulted in near-miss failures that were rectified immediately. The 1.6L diesel engine offers a cost-efficient alternative for higher-mileage drivers compared to petrol counterparts.
The 1.6 HDi diesel engine in this generation is generally considered robust but requires regular long-distance drives to avoid particulate filter blockage.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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CITROEN C3 Model Intelligence & Reliability
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Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
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Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2012 model year cars.
- Electric Power Steering (EPAS) FailureSerious
The EPAS steering column can fail intermittently or completely, causing heavy or unassisted steering. This is a known PSA Group weakness of this era and can be dangerous at low speeds.
- DPF Clogging on e-HDi (Short Trips)Moderate
The e-HDi diesel models are prone to diesel particulate filter clogging on short urban journeys, triggering limp mode and expensive forced regenerations.
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