2017 Citroen C1 1.2L Petrol · SE66 WRA

Recurring failures and persistent advisories regarding the exhaust system, suspension, and braking components define the mechanical history of this Citroen C1, which secured a pass on 09 February 2026 only after a significant failure in January of the same year. The vehicle has demonstrated a pattern of deteriorating compliance, moving from a clean record in early 2023 to multiple major failures involving emissions, engine management, and structural integrity. The frequency of these interventions suggests that the car has required consistent remedial work to remain roadworthy, with several items appearing across multiple consecutive tests, indicating that underlying issues have been managed rather than fully resolved. Accumulating 107,493 miles over nine years results in an average of approximately 11,944 miles per annum, a figure consistent with standard usage patterns for this class of vehicle. This level of mileage confirms the car has been in regular operation throughout its life, which typically places significant demand on high-wear components such as suspension bushings, ball joints, and exhaust systems. Prospective buyers should note that the high mileage, combined with the recent history of suspension and exhaust-related failures, points to a drivetrain and chassis that have been subjected to sustained road use, necessitating a thorough inspection of all moving parts. During a test drive, the current advisories regarding front brake pads and discs demand close attention. Listen for any grinding or squealing noises during deceleration, and monitor the brake pedal for any signs of judder or excessive travel, which may indicate that the components are nearing the end of their service life despite the recent pass. Furthermore, the recurring mention of brake pipe corrosion in previous tests warrants a visual check of the underside; look for any signs of flaking or heavy surface rust on the lines, as these are critical safety components that may require professional assessment if the corrosion has progressed beyond superficial levels. The suspension history, specifically the repeated warnings regarding worn bushes and missing locking devices on the ball joints, suggests that the steering and handling geometry may be compromised. On the road, pay close attention to the steering feel; any wandering, pulling to one side, or audible knocking sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps should be treated as evidence of lingering suspension fatigue. Given the previous major failures related to exhaust leaks and emissions, ensure the engine idles smoothly and that there are no unusual vibrations or blowing noises from the centre silencer, as these systems have historically been a point of failure for this specific vehicle.