2016 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · PN16 DXD

This Citroën C4 has demonstrated a consistent but unusual MOT pattern over the past three years, with two consecutive failures in both 2024 and 2025—each followed by a passing test just one day later. The most recent test, on 2025-08-14, passed without defects, though the immediate prior failure on 2025-08-13 suggests either a rushed correction or a minor oversight that was swiftly addressed. The absence of recorded defects in any test implies no persistent mechanical issues were formally identified by the tester, but the repeated failures—particularly the identical timing in successive years—raise questions about whether the vehicle was driven to the test centre in a corrected state rather than reflecting true roadworthiness. The lack of advisories or recurring faults in the record does not guarantee reliability, but it does indicate no obvious structural or safety-critical failures have been overlooked by official inspection. The recorded mileage of 90,545 miles over approximately ten years equates to an average of around 9,054 miles annually, which is typical for a vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps or abrupt jumps in mileage between tests, suggesting consistent use rather than prolonged neglect or storage. The most notable pattern is the two-day interval between failures and passes in both 2024 and 2025, which could imply the vehicle was driven directly to the test centre after minor repairs—perhaps to avoid further penalties or to meet a deadline. This behaviour does not inherently indicate poor maintenance but does warrant scrutiny of whether such corrections were made regularly or if the vehicle was operated with intermittent issues. Given the lack of recorded defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of high-wear components that often fail without obvious warning. The repeated MOT failures, despite passing tests, suggest potential issues with brake efficiency, suspension alignment, or exhaust emissions—areas where minor faults can escalate quickly. Focus on the condition of rear brake calipers and pads, as binding or uneven wear is a common cause of MOT failures that may not be immediately visible. Suspension bushes and coil springs should be examined for dryness or cracking, particularly around the rear axle, where wear tends to accelerate. Additionally, check for corrosion at wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, as structural integrity is critical for safety and handling. The absence of advisories in the record does not preclude hidden issues, so thorough testing of fluid levels (brakes, power steering, coolant) and tyre tread depth—despite passing MOTs—is essential.