2011 Citroen C3 1.6L Diesel · RV11 RVT

The Citroën C3’s most recent MOT history, recorded between October 2023 and October 2025, reveals a concerning pattern of repeated failures despite no defects being logged on passing tests. The vehicle failed twice in quick succession in both 2024 and 2025—first at 128,300 miles on 24 October 2024, then again at 134,478 miles on 23 October 2025—before passing at 134,480 miles just five days later. While the final pass suggests the issues were rectified, the lack of recorded defects implies either minor, undocumented repairs or a tester’s oversight of critical components. The absence of advisories or warnings in any test further complicates this, as it suggests either a history of intermittent failures or a pattern of neglect where problems only surface at the last moment. The mileage progression of approximately 8,965 miles per year aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age, though the abrupt jumps between tests—such as the 6,076 miles covered between the October 2024 failure and the October 2025 failure—raise questions about whether the vehicle was driven extensively between services or if the owner delayed testing. The gap between the 2023 and 2024 tests, covering 11,547 miles, is similarly consistent, indicating no prolonged periods of inactivity. However, the repeated failures at nearly identical mileages suggest a recurring mechanical issue rather than a one-off oversight. Given the history, a prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system, particularly the rear calipers and pads, as binding brakes were likely the cause of the failures. The suspension—including coil springs, bushes, and dampers—should be checked for uneven wear or corrosion, especially around the wheel arches and sills, where rust can compromise structural integrity. The exhaust system warrants scrutiny for leaks or excessive corrosion, as emissions-related failures are often the first to appear in older vehicles. Finally, the tyres should be examined for uneven tread wear, which could indicate alignment issues or worn suspension components. The lack of advisories in prior tests makes it imperative to verify whether any critical repairs were made between failures, as undocumented work could pose hidden risks.