2014 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · PY14 NJE

Twelve years on the road and this C4 carries a remarkably clean MOT record, with the most recent test on 2 March 2026 returning a pass alongside a single minor advisory for an inoperative nearside registration plate lamp. Across five tests covering 2022 through early 2026, the only other entry of any note is a 2023 advisory noting slight damage, cracking, or perishing to all four tyres, which at the time was evidently borderline rather than a fail. The absence of any advisories relating to corrosion, suspension components, brake pipes, exhaust integrity, or structural areas is a strong indicator of long-term roadworthiness, particularly for a twelve year old vehicle where advisories of this nature are common. The single lamp defect on the latest test is trivial and likely rectified by a bulb replacement. At 67,462 miles against a twelve year timeline, annual mileage equates to approximately 5,600 miles per year, which sits well below the national average for a vehicle of this age. There are no conspicuous gaps in the testing history, with annual tests consistently recorded from 2022 onwards and mileage progression between tests appearing steady and proportionate rather than erratic. This pattern suggests either regular light commuter use or a vehicle that has spent extended periods garaged between infrequent trips. Mechanically, lower mileage of this nature typically means reduced wear on the clutch, drivetrain, and engine internals, though it does carry the secondary effect of increased exposure of rubber components, seals, and underbody finishes to standing environment conditions and less frequent thermal cycling, which can accelerate perishing on items such as the tyres already flagged in 2023. Given the advisory history, the priority on inspection should be the tyres. Despite the 2023 advisory being classed as minor at the time, perishing and cracking tend to progress, particularly on sidewalls, so a close visual examination of all four tyres for visible sidewall cracking, tread depth measured across the full width, and age-related hardening is essential, as the original advisory applied to all positions. Equally, the registration plate lamp failure on the most recent test suggests attention to electrical minor items has lapsed, which on a low-mileage vehicle of this age can be an early indicator that other minor electrical items such as interior bulbs, number plate illumination, or side repeater lenses may also be reaching the end of their service life. A quick walk-around with the ignition on will confirm whether all exterior lighting functions correctly. Beyond the recorded advisories, a test drive should focus on the typical wear points for a C4 of this vintage and mileage profile. Listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, particularly over speed bumps, which would suggest wear in the lower wishbone bushes or anti-roll bar drop links. The steering should feel precise without excessive play or vibration through the column. Brake pedal feel should be firm, with no sponginess or excessive travel, and the car should pull up in a straight line without pulling to either side. On the move, any hesitation, misfire, or warning light illumination warrants diagnostic investigation, as low annual mileage can sometimes mask issues with infrequent use such as oil degradation or fuel system varnish. Finally, inspect the underbody for any surface corrosion that may not yet have reached the threshold for advisory recording but could indicate the onset of longer-term structural concerns.