2008 Citroen C1 1.0L Petrol · PL08 WDG

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT test on 12 May 2026, with only minor advisories recorded on the same date, namely an inoperative registration plate lamp and slight perishing on the driver-side front tyre. However, the same test also recorded a present failure reason for headlamp aim being too high on the passenger side, which was presumably rectified during the test to achieve the pass. Reviewing the recent MOT history, a concerning pattern emerges: the vehicle has failed and subsequently passed the same test on the same day in three consecutive years (2024, 2025, and 2026), indicating that the owner is consistently presenting the vehicle with defects that require repair before a pass is issued. Furthermore, the severity of defects has escalated over time, moving from a minor exhaust hanger issue in 2023, to a major excessively binding rear service brake in 2024, to a major indicator failure in 2025, alongside recurring headlamp aim defects. This trend suggests a maintenance pattern that is reactive rather than proactive, with issues being addressed only immediately prior to testing. With 86,791 miles recorded over approximately 18 years, the vehicle has averaged around 4,822 miles annually, which is notably low for a city car of this type. This low annual mileage implies either limited regular use or extended periods of standing, both of which carry specific mechanical implications for a vehicle of this age. Long periods of inactivity tend to accelerate degradation of rubber components, brake systems due to corrosion, exhaust fittings through condensation, and 12-volt battery health, while underutilisation can lead to oil seal drying and gearbox synchro issues from infrequent engagement. Given the documented MOT advisories, several recurring and emerging areas warrant close physical inspection. The advisories from the 2022 test regarding rear underbody corrosion, a corroded sub-frame, and perished rear radius arm bushes are particularly significant for a 2008 vehicle, especially one that may have been stored outdoors; the prospective buyer should closely examine the rear beam axle for advanced corrosion, check for any play in the rear suspension by pushing down firmly on each corner, and listen for clonking noises over uneven road surfaces during a test drive, which would indicate worn or perished bushes requiring replacement. The 2024 advisory regarding a binding nearside rear service brake and a broken front exhaust hanger suggests these components were either neglected or suffered from standing-related corrosion; on a test drive, the buyer should listen for scraping or grinding from the rear wheels, feel for any pulling to one side under braking, and inspect the exhaust for rattles or blowing sounds indicative of further mounting failure. Additionally, the recurring headlamp aim failures across multiple tests indicate either a poorly adjusted or damaged levelling mechanism, which should be verified on a level surface. Beyond the recorded advisories, the age and low-mileage profile of this Citroen C1 demands a broader inspection strategy. All tyres should be thoroughly examined for sidewall cracking and perishing, as the advisory from the 2024 and 2026 tests suggests this is an ongoing concern, and age-related rubber degradation can compromise safety regardless of remaining tread depth. The braking system should be checked for seized calipers and corroded discs, particularly given the standing periods implied by the low mileage, which can cause brake pads to bind against corroded discs. Fluid servicing is critical on a vehicle of this age, so the buyer should request evidence of recent coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil changes, as these degrade over calendar time rather than mileage. Finally, the 12-volt battery should be load-tested, as low-mileage vehicles with irregular use frequently suffer from premature battery failure, and the underbody should be placed on a ramp or inspected with an endoscope to verify the extent of any corrosion beyond what was visible during the MOT assessment.