2016 DS DS3 1.2L Petrol · PL16 AAU

The most recent MOT on 24 November 2025 was a pass, with only an advisory noting that the front brake pads are wearing thin. This follows a mixed recent history that includes two failures in 2024 and 2023 for lighting, suspension and washer faults, but the vehicle has now cleared the test without any major failures. The trend therefore appears to be stabilising, with the major defects having been rectified and only wear‑related advisories remaining, suggesting that the current maintenance regime is keeping the car in a road‑worthy state. At 88,085 miles recorded for a 2016 model the average annual mileage works out at roughly 8,800 mi per year, which is within the normal UK usage envelope for a ten‑year‑old car. There are no obvious large mileage gaps in the MOT record that would hint at prolonged periods of inactivity, so the wear on consumables such as tyres, brakes and suspension components should be consistent with a vehicle that has seen regular, moderate use rather than extreme high‑speed or heavy‑load operation. The recurring advisories on both front lower suspension arm pins or bushes, the front exhaust mounting, and the off‑side track‑rod end ball joint merit close inspection. Examine the suspension bushings for any looseness, cracking or oil leakage, and listen for clunking or knocking when the steering wheel is turned at low speed or when passing bumps – symptoms that would indicate excessive play in the ball joint or worn bushings. The front exhaust mounting should be checked for cracked or broken brackets and for any rattling noises that increase with engine load, as a defective mount can lead to vibration and eventual exhaust fatigue. Verify that both front position lamps operate correctly and that the windscreen washer system now functions, as these were previously recorded as major failures. The thin front brake pads will need replacement soon; inspect the disc surfaces for scoring or uneven wear, and be alert for any brake shudder or reduced pedal feel during a test drive. Given the vehicle’s age, also assess age‑related items irrespective of mileage. Inspect the tyre sidewalls for cracking, dry rot or bulging, especially if the tyres are older than six years, and confirm that tread depth is within legal limits. Test the 12‑volt battery voltage and check for any signs of sulphation or leaking, as batteries tend to lose capacity after five to seven years even with low mileage. Examine all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for correct levels, discoloration or sediment, and consider a full fluid change if the service book shows no recent entries. Finally, ensure the service history is complete and that any suspension or exhaust work noted in the MOT advisories has been carried out and documented, as these are the areas most likely to affect future reliability and safety.