2016 Citroen C1 1.2L Petrol · PL65 WCC

The most recent MOT test, conducted on 2025-12-02, resulted in a clean pass with no recorded defects, marking a positive conclusion to the vehicle’s most recent inspection. However, the history reveals a concerning pattern: the 2024-11-30 MOT failed due to two critical issues—an underperforming near-side rear parking brake and significant axle brake imbalance on the rear axle (Axle 2)—which were not present in prior tests. While the intervening MOTs from 2023 to 2025 were all passed without defects, the failure in late 2024 suggests either a delayed or unresolved issue from earlier wear progression or a sudden mechanical failure. This trend indicates that while the vehicle has maintained roadworthiness in recent years, the brake system—particularly the rear brakes—has been a persistent concern, warranting immediate attention to prevent further degradation or safety risks. The recorded mileage of 54,382 miles for a vehicle aged approximately ten years is unusually low, averaging around 5,438 miles per year. Such a low annual mileage is atypical for a car of this age, especially given the C1’s common use in light commercial or family settings where higher mileage would be expected. The significant gap between the 2021 and 2022 MOTs, with no recorded defects, suggests the vehicle may have been stored or used infrequently during that period, which can exacerbate issues like fluid degradation, corrosion from standing, and wear from lack of dynamic loading. However, this low mileage does not necessarily mean the vehicle is well-maintained; it could also imply that the owner has not been proactive about routine servicing or has neglected consumables like brake pads, suspension components, or fluids that degrade more slowly but still require attention over time. Given the recent MOT failure and the persistent brake-related advisories, the prospective buyer must prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system. The near-side rear parking brake efficiency being only just met suggests the cable or mechanism may be worn or stretched, leading to inconsistent engagement. Symptoms to watch for during a test drive include a spongy or uneven brake pedal feel, especially when applying the rear brakes, or a grinding noise when the parking brake is engaged. The rear axle brake imbalance indicates uneven wear between the rear wheels, which could stem from misaligned brakes, warped discs, or binding calipers. Inspect the rear brake discs for uneven thickness, corrosion, or scoring, and check for binding in the calipers or brake arms. Additionally, verify that the parking brake mechanism is fully functional and that the cable is not frayed or corroded. Immediate attention to these issues is critical to prevent further brake failure, which could compromise stopping performance and safety. Beyond the brake system, the buyer should conduct a comprehensive physical inspection given the vehicle’s age and low mileage profile. Given the prolonged periods of inactivity, check for signs of corrosion, particularly around the rear wheel arches, exhaust system, and undercarriage, where moisture and road salt can accelerate rust progression. Inspect the tyres for sidewall perishing, which can occur even at low mileage due to age-related degradation of the rubber compound. The 2022 MOT advisory about the offside rear tyre being worn close to the legal limit on the edge suggests that the tyre may have been underinflated or subjected to uneven loading, leading to premature wear. Verify the tyre pressure and tread depth across all tyres, and consider replacing the offside rear tyre if it is significantly worn or cracked. Additionally, assess the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged disuse can lead to sulphation or terminal corrosion, reducing its lifespan. Finally, since the vehicle has not been serviced at the recommended intervals for its age, the buyer should request the service history to confirm that fluids such as the brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid have been changed according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Time-based fluid servicing is particularly important for a vehicle that has been stationary for extended periods, as fluids can degrade without use.