2016 Citroen C4 Grand Picasso 1.6L Diesel · PL66 NFM

The most recent MOT test on 2026-07-27 was passed with no recorded defects, marking a positive turnaround following a series of failures and advisories in the preceding years. While the vehicle’s recent history shows a notable improvement, the pattern of recurring advisories—particularly around tyre wear, suspension components, and brake condition—suggests that some wear and tear has accumulated over time. The front tyre edge wear advisories, which appeared in multiple MOTs, indicate prolonged exposure to uneven loading or alignment issues, potentially exacerbated by the vehicle’s age and mileage. The suspension arm pin or bush wear advisories, consistently noted since 2025, point to a need for closer inspection, as excessive movement in these components can lead to further degradation of suspension geometry and ride quality. The absence of major failures in the last test is encouraging, but the history of minor issues underscores the importance of addressing these components before they escalate into more costly repairs. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 82,123 miles for a 2016 model represents an average annual usage of approximately 8,212 miles, which is relatively typical for its age and class. However, the absence of a clear pattern of rapid mileage accumulation suggests either light or intermittent use, potentially with prolonged periods of inactivity. This could have contributed to some of the observed wear, such as the rear brake pad thinning and binding, which are more likely to develop when brakes are not regularly engaged. Tyre wear patterns, particularly the balding on the outer edges of the front tyres, may also reflect underinflation, poor alignment, or uneven load distribution, which can be exacerbated by infrequent driving. The rear tyre cracking or perishing advisories, despite being noted only once, warrant attention as they can indicate long-term exposure to heat and flexing, which may compromise tyre integrity over time. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination include the front and rear tyres, suspension components, and braking system. The balding on the outer edges of the front tyres should be addressed promptly, as they are approaching the legal limit and pose a safety risk. Check for uneven wear patterns, which may indicate misalignment or suspension issues. Listen for any clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension during a test drive, particularly when driving over bumps, as this could signal worn suspension arm bushes or ball joints. The rear brake pads being less than 1.5 mm thick is a major concern and requires immediate replacement to prevent overheating, warping, and reduced braking performance. Inspect the rear brake discs for pitting, scoring, or excessive thickness loss, and check for any signs of binding, which could indicate warped discs or seized calipers. The suspension arm pin or bush wear advisories suggest that the front suspension may need servicing, including the replacement of worn bushes or ball joints, to maintain ride comfort and prevent further alignment issues. Beyond the mechanical checks, the vehicle’s age and the recorded mileage make it prudent to verify the condition of the 12V battery, as older batteries can fail without warning, particularly if the vehicle has been left unused for extended periods. Check for signs of corrosion around the battery terminals and cables, and ensure the battery holds a charge when the ignition is off. The brake fluid should be inspected for contamination or moisture, as this can lead to brake fade or failure. Given the vehicle’s age, the brake fluid should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations, typically every 2–3 years, to prevent corrosion within the brake system. Additionally, the service history should be reviewed to confirm that the oil, coolant, and other fluids have been changed at the recommended intervals, as fluid degradation over time can lead to engine or transmission issues. Finally, a thorough visual inspection of the exhaust system for leaks, corrosion, or structural integrity is essential, especially given the history of rear wheel fixing failures, which may have contributed to previous emissions-related advisories.