2013 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · RF13 DFU

The latest MOT test for this 2013 Citroën C4 occurred on 2026-02-12, resulting in a passing grade despite persistent advisories related to tyre wear and rear brake binding. While the vehicle has not failed the MOT in the past three years, the recurring advisories—particularly the nearside and offside front tyres approaching legal limits with edge wear and the offside rear tyre showing structural damage—suggest a maintenance trend that has not fully resolved. The presence of a dangerous failure in 2023, specifically a tear in the offside rear tyre reaching the ply or cords, indicates a history of significant tyre degradation that has since been mitigated but not eliminated. These findings warrant cautious optimism, as the vehicle has otherwise maintained roadworthiness, but the buyer must address these issues proactively to prevent further safety risks. The recorded mileage of 105,478 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 13 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 8,114 miles per year, which is within the expected range for a car of this age. However, the MOT history does not provide explicit evidence of rapid mileage accumulation, suggesting that the vehicle may have been driven at a steady pace without excessive wear from high-mileage conditions. Still, the tyre advisories and prior dangerous failure indicate that the vehicle has undergone significant use, particularly in terms of tyre wear, which can accelerate with prolonged exposure to road conditions, poor alignment, or improper tyre maintenance. The rear brake binding advisory also hints at potential drivetrain or caliper wear, which could worsen with continued service, especially if the vehicle is frequently driven at higher speeds or under heavy loads. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should prioritise checking the tyre condition beyond what the MOT has recorded. The offside rear tyre’s history of structural damage and the nearside and offside front tyres nearing legal limits necessitate a visual inspection for any remaining cracks, bulges, or signs of tread separation. Listen for unusual noises during a test drive, particularly on cornering and braking, to detect any clunking from worn suspension bushes, uneven tyre wear patterns, or binding calipers. The rear brake system should be inspected for excessive heat damage, warping, or corrosion on the discs, which could exacerbate binding. Additionally, verify the vehicle’s alignment and wheel bearings for any play or grinding, as misalignment can accelerate tyre wear and affect handling stability. For calendar-based maintenance, the buyer should consider the following checks and servicing intervals. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, the 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as standing vehicles can lead to corrosion or internal failure. The brake fluid should be checked for contamination or moisture, which can degrade performance and lead to spongy pedal feel. The coolant system should be inspected for leaks or sludge buildup, as the engine may have undergone prolonged periods without fluid replacement. Finally, the exhaust emissions system should be reviewed for any signs of corrosion or structural compromise, particularly around the catalytic converter and mufflers, as older vehicles are more susceptible to rust and performance degradation. If the vehicle has a service history, verify that all scheduled maintenance—such as oil changes, suspension inspections, and fluid top-ups—has been recorded to ensure no critical components have been neglected.