2013 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · OU63 PHA

The most recent MOT test on the 2013 Citroën C4 was conducted on 2025-10-11 and resulted in a failure, despite passing the same test on 2024-10-11, indicating a concerning trend of recurring advisories and major defects. The vehicle’s MOT history reveals persistent issues with near-side and offside front brake discs showing pitted and scored surfaces, which are not yet deemed seriously weakened but warrant closer attention as wear progresses. Additionally, the near-side front daytime running light (DRL) remains non-functional, and the front tyres exhibit significant edge wear and multiple small cuts, nearing the legal limit with no visible cord structure, suggesting either underinflation, misalignment, or excessive braking. The failure in 2022 highlighted a major issue with the offside constant velocity (CV) joint boot split, which allowed contaminants to enter the joint, compromising its integrity and potentially leading to bearing failure or excessive play in the drive shaft. The exhaust emissions test has also repeatedly failed, exceeding the manufacturer’s specified limits, which may point to catalytic converter inefficiency or blocked exhaust components, requiring professional diagnostics to determine the root cause. The recorded mileage of 109,930 miles for a vehicle aged 13 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 8,456 miles per year, which is typical for its age but not exceptionally high. This usage profile suggests the car has been driven regularly rather than left in long-term storage, which could accelerate wear on consumables like fluids, seals, and moving parts. However, the absence of significant mileage gaps between tests implies consistent operation, but the combination of high mileage and repeated brake disc advisories suggests the braking system has undergone considerable stress. The CV joint failure in 2022, coupled with the persistent tyre and DRL issues, implies that while the vehicle has been maintained, certain critical components—particularly the drivetrain and electrical systems—have been neglected or have degraded over time. The emissions failures further suggest that the vehicle’s exhaust system may require attention before it becomes a safety or environmental risk. For a prospective buyer, the Citroën C4 presents several critical areas to inspect and address before purchase. The front brake discs, which are repeatedly showing pitted and scored surfaces, should be examined for further wear or signs of warping or binding. On a test drive, listen for uneven brake pedal travel, grinding noises during braking, or a pulsating sensation that could indicate warped discs or binding calipers. The CV joint failure from 2022 is a major concern; inspect the offside rear wheel for excessive play or rattling when accelerating, and check for oil leaks around the joint housing. The non-functional DRL and edge-worn tyres with multiple cuts indicate electrical and tyre-related issues that should be resolved promptly, as the DRL failure could affect visibility during low-light conditions, while the tyre damage may compromise grip and safety. Additionally, the repeated emissions failures suggest the catalytic converter or exhaust system may need professional inspection to determine if it can be repaired or if the vehicle is unsuitable for further use. If the vehicle’s history were cleaner or the mileage significantly lower, the buyer’s inspection would focus on more routine checks. For this age and mileage, however, the priority should be on the drivetrain, braking system, and exhaust components. Beyond the immediate defects, verify the condition of the suspension components, such as coil springs, shock absorbers, and suspension bushes, for signs of wear or failure, which could lead to clunking noises or poor ride quality. Check the fluid levels—brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid—ensuring they are topped up and free from contamination, as fluid degradation over time can exacerbate wear. Inspect the exhaust for corrosion or rust, particularly around the manifold and catalytic converter, and listen for unusual noises or backpressure that could indicate blockages or failing components. Finally, given the vehicle’s age, consider a thorough inspection of the electrical system, including fuses, wiring, and sensors, to ensure no hidden faults have developed from the repeated DRL and minor electrical advisories. If the CV joint and exhaust issues are confirmed as repairable, the C4 could still be a viable purchase, but only after addressing these critical failures and budgeting for potential future servicing.