2003 Citroen Saxo 1.1L Petrol · RO03 VEL

The most recent MOT inspection from January 2026 shows a pass, but this follows a significant failure on the preceding day involving a major exhaust gas leak near the catalytic converter. This failure prevented a successful emissions test, indicating a compromise in the exhaust system's integrity. While the vehicle has moved from a failure to a pass, the maintenance trend appears reactive rather than preventative. The history shows a recurring pattern of failures related to lighting, drive shaft boots, and braking imbalances, suggesting that while the vehicle is being kept roadworthy through repairs, there is a lack of consistent proactive maintenance to address minor defects before they escalate into major failures. With a recorded mileage of 58,015 over 23 years, this Citroen Saxo has covered an average of approximately 2,522 miles per year. This is exceptionally low usage for a vehicle of this age, which often indicates the car has spent considerable periods stationary or is used only for very short, infrequent trips. While low mileage generally implies less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, it introduces specific risks associated with long-term standing. Such usage patterns often lead to the degradation of rubber components, the settling of fluids, and the onset of corrosion in areas not frequently cleaned or lubricated by regular driving. A primary concern for a prospective buyer is the repeated advisory regarding tyre perishing and cracking. The MOT history shows consistent notes on tyre sidewall degradation dating back to 2022, which is a direct consequence of age and low usage rather than tread wear. You must inspect all four tyres for deep cracks in the sidewalls or between the tread blocks, as these indicate the rubber has lost its elasticity and could lead to a sudden blowout. Furthermore, the recent failure regarding the exhaust leak and the advisory concerning a missing center exhaust mount suggest the exhaust system is becoming structurally unsound. During a test drive, listen closely for loud droning, rattling, or a heavy scent of fumes entering the cabin, which would indicate the exhaust repairs are insufficient or that further mounting points are failing. The history also highlights recurring issues with CV boots and braking imbalances. You should pay close attention to any clicking or popping noises when turning the steering wheel at low speeds, which would indicate a failing drive shaft joint following the previous boot failures. Additionally, given the history of imbalanced rear brakes and the low annual mileage, check for binding calipers or uneven brake disc corrosion. During braking, listen for any grinding or feel for a pulsating sensation through the pedal, which could signal sticking components caused by the vehicle standing for long periods. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that fluids, such as brake fluid and coolant, have been changed based on time intervals rather than just mileage, as these fluids degrade chemically even when the car is not being driven.