2013 Citroen DS3 1.6L Petrol · OV62 XAB

The vehicle currently holds a roadworthy status, but the maintenance history indicates a reactive rather than proactive care pattern. The most recent test in June 2023 at 43,398 miles resulted in a pass only after addressing a fractured offside rear coil spring and pitted brake discs. While the car is currently legally on the road, the trend of mechanical failures between tests suggests that components are only replaced once they reach a point of critical failure rather than during routine service intervals. At 13 years old, the recorded mileage of 43,398 miles is significantly low, averaging approximately 3,300 miles per year. This low usage often implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, but it increases the risk of degradation in rubber-based components. There is a notable gap between the November 2022 and June 2023 tests where the vehicle covered only 1,515 miles, which aligns with a pattern of stationary periods. Such inactivity can lead to the corrosion and structural fatigue issues seen in the record. A buyer must conduct a thorough physical inspection of the suspension and braking system. The record shows corroded rear coil springs in 2022 followed by a fracture in 2023, indicating the rear suspension assembly is prone to rust-related failure. The recurring mention of pitted and scored brake discs across both 2022 and 2023 suggests the discs are suffering from surface oxidation during long periods of standing, which can negatively affect braking performance and cause noise. The failure in November 2021 at 37,735 miles due to multiple structural tyre tears and exposed cords highlights a previous lapse in basic safety checks. Any prospective owner should inspect the sidewalls for dry rot and cracking, as the low annual mileage often masks rubber becoming brittle over time. Given the age of the vehicle, checking the structural integrity of the exhaust and suspension mounting points is essential to ensure that the corrosion noted in the past has not progressed beyond the point of repair.