2014 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · OV64 YAY

A recurring theme of structural and braking wear runs through the MOT history of this 2014 Citroen C4, despite the modest overall mileage. The most recent test on 7 January 2026 returned a clean pass with no defects recorded, but the preceding tests reveal a vehicle that has been progressively developing issues at the front suspension and rear braking systems. On 20 December 2024, the car failed its MOT due to a dangerous nearside front tyre with a structural lump, alongside an advisory noting worn front suspension arm pins or bushes on both sides. The earlier January 2024 test similarly failed on a major exhaust insecurity, with advisories flagging pitted and scored rear brake discs and thinning inner brake pads on both rear corners. While the current pass is reassuring, the pattern suggests that underlying component wear has been building and may soon require more substantive rectification. At 50,815 miles over twelve years, this C4 has covered roughly 4,235 miles annually, which is considerably below the typical usage rate for a car of its age. Such low accumulation usually means the drivetrain, clutch, and major engine components have experienced less mechanical stress than average, but it also raises the possibility of extended periods of standing. Components most susceptible to degradation through inactivity rather than use include brake discs corroding on the face, front suspension bushes stiffening or cracking, tyres developing flat spots or sidewall deterioration from age, and rubber seals perishing throughout the braking and fuel systems. The visible pitted condition of the rear brake discs flagged in 2024 is a classic symptom of underuse combined with infrequent or gentle braking, and the front suspension wear points to either age-hardened rubber or a lack of the dynamic loading that keeps bushes lubricated and flexible. Given the advisory history, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front suspension geometry. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end over speed humps and uneven surfaces, particularly over undulating B-roads where suspension articulation is most telling. Feel for vagueness or play through the steering, especially around the straight-ahead position, and watch for uneven tyre wear across the front axle, which would suggest the worn bushes are no longer holding correct geometry. Request that the front wheels be jacked up so the front suspension arms can be physically grabbed and rocked to check for the play noted in the 2024 advisory. Additionally, inspect all four tyres closely for any signs of sidewall cracking, bulges, or uneven tread wear, as the dangerous tyre failure recorded in late 2024 highlights that rubber condition on a low-mileage car can deteriorate through age alone. The rear braking system also warrants direct inspection, particularly as disc wear of the nature recorded typically progresses between tests. During a test drive, listen for any scraping, or grinding from the rear wheels under light braking, and feel for any judder through the pedal or vibration through the cabin under firm application. With the wheels off, the rear discs should be checked for a pronounced lip on the outer edge and for deep pitting visible across the braking surface, as scoring of this type accelerates once it begins. The exhaust system, which was flagged as insecure in January 2024, should be inspected from underneath for any hanging sections, perished rubber mountings, or loose clamps. Finally, because the vehicle has covered so few miles per year, verify the age of the 12V battery, check that the air conditioning system still holds refrigerant and functions correctly, and ensure the tyre pressure monitoring system sensors have not depleted, as TPMS units typically require replacement every five to seven years regardless of mileage.