2015 Citroen C3 1.6L Diesel · NG64 ELC

Recurring issues with braking components and structural securing of the exhaust system characterize the mechanical profile of this Citroen C3, despite a successful MOT on 19 February 2026. The vehicle has exhibited a pattern of intermittent failures and advisories, most notably a dangerous failure in February 2026 involving a structural bulge in the nearside front outer tyre and a split nearside front outer drive shaft constant velocity boot. This follows a series of brake-related advisories in February 2025, where fluctuating nearside front service brakes and a binding offside front service brake were noted alongside a pitted nearside rear inner brake disc. While the most recent test shows no defects, the history indicates a tendency for wear and component degradation to manifest across both the braking and drivetrain systems. The recorded mileage of 107,007 miles over approximately eleven years represents an average annual accumulation of roughly 9,728 miles, which is consistent with typical UK usage for a vehicle of this age. This steady mileage suggests the car has been in regular use rather than sitting stationary for extended periods, which typically helps prevent certain types of degradation. However, the accumulation of over 100,000 miles means that mechanical components such as suspension bushes, drive shaft joints, and braking hardware are subject to cumulative wear. The recent failure of the drive shaft CV boot is a common consequence of this mileage level, as the rubber components become brittle and prone to splitting. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the braking system during a test drive, given the history of fluctuating and binding calipers, as well as pitted discs. Listen for any rhythmic squealing or grinding noises when applying the brakes and feel for any pulsing or judder through the brake pedal, which could indicate uneven disc wear or sticking calipers. It is also essential to inspect the condition of the tyres, specifically looking for any sidewall bulges or uneven wear patterns that might suggest internal structural damage similar to the failure recorded in February 2026. Regarding the drivetrain and exhaust, the buyer should listen for clicking or popping sounds coming from the front end during low-speed, full-lock turns, which would indicate a failing constant velocity joint following the previous split boot. Additionally, because the exhaust system has been flagged as insecure and having corroded mountings in previous tests, the vehicle should be checked for excessive vibration or rattling from underneath the car, particularly when idling or accelerating. Any noticeable movement of the exhaust system when the vehicle is shaken slightly while stationary would suggest that the mounting points require further attention.