2014 Citroen DS3 1.6L Petrol · NJ64 FPL

The vehicle’s most recent MOT test on 2025-03-05 at 83,795 miles passed without defects, though it follows an unusual pattern of two consecutive failures in March 2025 and March 2024—both at identical mileages (79,124 and 83,772 respectively) despite no recorded defects. This inconsistency suggests either a technical oversight in the testing process or a vehicle that narrowly avoided serious issues during those checks. The lack of advisories or repeated failures on the same components in the 2023 test at 70,869 miles indicates no clear worsening trend in structural integrity or major systems. However, the repeated failures at the same mileage intervals—spaced exactly one year apart—demand scrutiny of components prone to wear cycles, such as suspension bushes, coil springs, or brake calipers, which could degrade predictably over time. The recorded mileage of 83,795 miles over 12 years equates to an average of approximately 6,983 miles annually, which aligns with typical usage patterns for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps or abrupt spikes in mileage between tests, though the identical failure mileages in 2024 and 2025 (79,124 and 83,772) are unusual and warrant explanation. The absence of a pre-failure test in either cycle—where the vehicle would have been inspected at a lower mileage—makes it impossible to confirm whether the failures were due to sudden component failure or a gradual degradation that only became apparent at those specific intervals. Given the lack of recorded defects but the repeated failures, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the suspension system, particularly the rear axle where binding calipers or worn bushes could cause intermittent failures. The brakes, especially the rear discs and pads, should be checked for uneven wear or corrosion, as repeated failures often point to binding or seized components. Structural corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and subframe, should also be examined, as this is a common failure point for vehicles of this age and mileage. The absence of advisories in the MOT history does not preclude underlying issues, so visual inspection of the underbody and suspension geometry is essential. Finally, the exhaust system should be scrutinised for leaks or excessive corrosion, as this is another frequent cause of MOT failures in similar vehicles.