2014 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · SJ64 AFY

The most recent MOT inspection on 13 October 2025 resulted in a pass, although the vehicle initially failed due to an inoperative rear registration plate lamp. Looking at the broader maintenance trend, the vehicle shows a pattern of reactive maintenance rather than proactive servicing. While the history shows periods of clean passes, there are recurring issues with consumables and steering components, such as the track rod end failures in 2023 and brake and tyre advisories in 2022. The overall stability of the vehicle's maintenance appears moderate, as the owner tends to address major defects only when they reach the point of MOT failure, which is a common but less-than-ideal approach to long-term mechanical preservation. With a recorded mileage of 102,138 miles over approximately twelve years, the vehicle has averaged roughly 8,500 miles per year. This is considered typical, moderate usage for a diesel or petrol hatchback of this age, suggesting it has not been subjected to extreme motorway cruising nor excessive stop-start urban driving. However, at this mileage threshold, several mechanical components are entering a phase of increased wear. You should anticipate that suspension bushings, shock absorbers, and various rubber seals may be nearing the end of their optimal service life, even if they currently pass inspection. During your test drive, pay close attention to the steering response and front-end stability. The 2023 failure regarding excessive play in both nearside and offside front track rod end ball joints indicates that the steering geometry has been a known weak point. Listen for any clicking, knocking, or wandering sensations through the steering wheel, especially when navigating uneven surfaces or during low-speed manoeuvres, as this could signal that new steering or suspension components are required. Additionally, given the previous advisories for worn tyres and thinning brake pads, inspect the tread depth and evenness across all four tyres. Uneven wear on the edges of the tyres can indicate incorrect camber or alignment issues, while a pulsating sensation through the brake pedal during deceleration would suggest that the brake discs may be warped or heavily pitted, following the previous advisory regarding disc condition. Finally, perform a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle's underside and engine bay for signs of fluid leaks or excessive corrosion. Even with a clean recent MOT, a vehicle of this age and mileage should be checked for signs of ageing in rubber components, such as perishing on the tyre sidewalls or cracking in the serpentine belts. Check the condition of the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure the service history supports regular oil and filter changes, as the 100,000-mile mark is a critical period for timing belt replacement if it has not been documented. Verify that the brake calipers are not binding, which can cause overheating and premature wear, especially if the car has spent periods stationary.