2021 Citroen C3 Shine Puretech S/S 1.2L Petrol · OY71 SYA

A clean overall roadworthiness profile defines this 2021 Citroen C3 Shine PureTech, with only a single minor failure recorded across two test presentations and no advisories whatsoever on either pass. The most recent assessment on 14 January 2026 returned a pass with no defects recorded, and a prior test on 10 December 2024 was similarly clean. The sole blemish in the file is a present-time fail issued on the same January 2026 visit, concerning both headlamp aim levels being too high. While this is an easily rectified item typically resolved by a manual adjustment screw on the rear of the headlamp unit, it is worth confirming the adjustment has been correctly set and that both lamps are projecting within legal tolerances, as misaligned beams can fail again at the next test. There is no evidence of any recurring structural, brake, suspension, or corrosion issues, which is reassuring given the vehicle's age and the propensity for some PureTech-era Citroens to develop minor oil leaks or coolant concerns. At 54,683 miles over five years, the vehicle has accumulated roughly 10,900 miles annually, placing it squarely within the typical usage band for a small petrol family car of its age. There are no extended gaps between tests that would suggest long periods of standing, which is important for a PureTech drivetrain as intermittent use can contribute to timing chain stretch and premature wear. The steady, consistent mileage accumulation suggests regular operation, helping to keep the engine internals lubricated, the battery exercised, and the exhaust system free of condensation accumulation. Mechanically, this mileage level implies moderate wear on consumables such as brake pads and discs, tyres, and clutch friction material, though none of these items have triggered advisory limits in the recorded tests. From a buyer guidance perspective, the headlamp aim failure is the only specific test item to focus on, and a brief check should confirm the headlamp levelling mechanism is functioning correctly, particularly if the vehicle is fitted with automatic or manually selected beam adjustment. On a road test, ensure both dipped beams strike a flat surface at an equal and appropriate height, and listen for any buzzing or roughness from the levelling motors if fitted. Beyond that, given the absence of any recorded brake, tyre, or suspension advisories, attention should turn to the general condition of components that commonly wear on a PureTech chassis at this mileage, including front brake disc lipping, rear suspension bush compliance over speed humps and uneven surfaces, and any developing knocking or clonking from the front struts or anti-roll bar linkages. A careful inspection underneath the vehicle for any signs of undertray damage, coolant staining around the thermostat housing or water pump area, and oil seepage from the cam cover or sump gasket would be prudent. Finally, although the MOT file is commendably sparse, the relatively high test interval between December 2024 and January 2026 should prompt a few targeted physical checks. Verify the tyre tread depths across the full width of each tyre, as uneven inner or outer shoulder wear can indicate tracking or suspension geometry issues that would not yet have flagged as an advisory. Check that the steering remains centred and free of excess free play, and feel for any vibration through the brake pedal under moderate deceleration which would suggest disc warping. With no recorded defects and a consistent usage pattern, this C3 presents a fundamentally sound mechanical basis, provided the headlamp adjustment is verified and a thorough physical inspection returns no immediate concerns.