2016 Citroen C3 1.2L Petrol · NG16 AED

The 2016 Citroën C3 has demonstrated an alarming pattern of repeated MOT failures without recorded defects, most recently failing on 2026-02-10 at exactly 49,756 miles. This suggests either a systematic oversight in test reporting or, more critically, that the vehicle has been driven despite unresolved issues. The lack of defects listed—even in failures—implies either a flawed testing process or that the tester did not identify faults beyond the scope of the MOT’s primary checks. The most recent test, just five months ago, indicates the vehicle has not been legally roadworthy since February, yet it remains in circulation. This is a significant red flag for structural integrity and compliance. The recorded mileage of 49,756 miles over ten years equates to approximately 4,976 miles annually, which is unusually low for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests—particularly the repeated failures at identical mileages in January 2024 and January 2025—suggest prolonged periods of non-use or inconsistent maintenance. The fact that the vehicle was tested twice on the same date in three consecutive years (2024 and 2025) further raises suspicion of either deliberate evasion of MOT requirements or a history of neglect. Such patterns often correlate with stored vehicles or those subjected to minimal servicing, accelerating wear on components like suspension bushes, coil springs, and brake calipers. Given the repeated failures without defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of structural elements, including the subframe and wheel arches for corrosion, as well as the suspension system for degraded bushes or worn coil springs. The braking system warrants close scrutiny, particularly the rear calipers, which may have been flagged for binding in prior tests despite no official record. Tyres should be checked for uneven wear, which could indicate alignment issues or prolonged underinflation. The lack of service history or defect notes makes it impossible to confirm whether critical components—such as the exhaust system or steering linkages—have been addressed, so a thorough mechanical examination is essential. The vehicle’s compliance with current emissions standards should also be verified, as repeated failures without explanation may indicate unresolved catalytic converter or engine management issues.