2009 Citroen C3 1.6L Petrol · SL09 WVP

The vehicle is currently roadworthy, but the maintenance trend indicates a reactive rather than proactive approach to repairs. The most recent test on 25 May 2026 at 76,741 miles saw the car fail initially due to insufficient tread depth on three tyres, including two below legal limits. While it passed the immediate re-test, the failure suggests the previous owner only addressed safety defects once forced by the MOT testing requirement. This pattern of neglecting consumable items suggests a lack of basic routine inspections between annual tests. At 17 years old, the recorded mileage of 76,741 miles is significantly low, averaging approximately 4,500 miles per year. This low usage often correlates with less wear on engine and drivetrain components, but it accelerates the degradation of rubber-based parts through age. Between the October 2023 test at 72,328 miles and November 2024 at 73,874 miles, the car covered only 1,546 miles in thirteen months. This confirms a history of intermittent use which can lead to mechanical components seizing. The mechanical history reveals persistent issues with the suspension and chassis components. The tester flagged corroded rear coil springs in both 2023 and 2024, alongside worn bushes on the rear sub-frame and nearside front Macpherson strut. While these did not result in immediate failures, they indicate advancing structural corrosion and wear typical of a vehicle of this age. The failure for a deteriorated offside front CV boot in 2024 also highlights that rubber components are reaching the end of their life. A buyer should thoroughly inspect the sub-frame for deep structural rust and ensure all CV boots are not currently showing grease leakage or further tearing.