2018 Citroen C3 Aircross 1.6L Diesel · SA18 XUB

The most recent MOT, carried out on 28 August 2026, resulted in a failure. The test recorded several major defects – a front exhaust leak, an excessively worn ball‑joint on the nearside front suspension arm, a rear service brake that is binding, and an off‑side rear tyre close to the legal limit – together with advisories for an oil leak and tyre edge wear. This marks a clear deterioration from the preceding six years, during which the vehicle passed annually with only minor advisories recorded in 2021, indicating that the maintenance trend has shifted from stable to worsening. With a recorded odometer reading of 63,786 mi for a vehicle first registered in 2018, the average annual mileage works out at roughly 7,970 mi. This figure sits comfortably within the typical UK usage pattern for a car of this age and suggests no periods of extreme high‑speed running or unusually low mileage that might mask hidden wear. The mileage does not, on its own, explain the recent failures, but it does mean that consumables such as brake discs, suspension bushings and tyres are likely approaching the end of their service life and will need careful inspection. Prospective buyers should focus on the items flagged as major defects. The binding rear service brake will manifest as a pull to one side when applying the foot‑brake, a stiff pedal feel, or a grinding noise; it often points to a seized caliper, warped backing plate or excessive pad wear and will require a full brake overhaul, including caliper rebuild or replacement and likely new pads and discs. The front exhaust leak will be audible as a ticking or hissing tone, especially at idle, and may allow exhaust gases into the cabin; a visual inspection for cracked pipe or loose joints is essential, and replacement of the affected section is advisable. The nearside front suspension arm ball‑joint, described as excessively worn, will produce clunking noises when turning or going over bumps and can lead to imprecise steering if not rectified; replacement of the ball‑joint and a check of the associated control arm bushings are recommended. The off‑side rear tyre, being close to the legal tread limit and showing edge wear, should be replaced immediately, and the remaining tyres examined for uneven wear patterns that could indicate alignment or suspension issues. The recurring oil leak, although not deemed excessive, should be traced to its source – often a valve cover gasket or oil filter housing – and repaired to prevent future engine oil loss and potential overheating. Given the breadth of the current defects, the vehicle will need a comprehensive mechanical assessment before purchase. Arrange for a qualified independent mechanic to verify the condition of the brakes, suspension, exhaust system and engine oil sealing, and to obtain quotations for the necessary remedial work. In addition, request a full service history to confirm that routine items such as coolant, brake fluid and gearbox oil have been changed at appropriate intervals, as time‑based degradation can be as critical as mileage‑driven wear on a car of this age. Only after these inspections and any required repairs are confirmed should the buyer consider proceeding with the transaction.