2022 Citroen C4 Sense Puretech S/S 1.2L Petrol · SL72 DYA

The most recent MOT test on 2026-08-26 resulted in a passing outcome, though it followed two previous failures in August 2026, indicating a pattern of recurring critical and dangerous defects that have not been fully resolved. The progression of advisories and failures over the past year—particularly the persistent issues with brake pad thickness, binding rear service brakes, and non-functional windscreen washers—suggests a trend of maintenance neglect or unresolved mechanical wear. While the latest test cleared the vehicle, the history of repeated failures highlights systemic problems that demand immediate attention. The combination of dangerous brake pad wear and binding rear brakes is particularly concerning, as it points to either inadequate maintenance or underlying mechanical degradation that could compromise road safety if left unaddressed. The vehicle’s recorded mileage of 24,178 miles at the time of assessment represents a reasonable annual usage rate of approximately 6,044 miles, which aligns with typical driving patterns for a four-year-old car. However, the presence of multiple MOT failures within a short period—particularly those linked to brake system failures and windscreen washer functionality—may indicate either a lack of regular servicing or excessive wear from either high mileage accumulation or prolonged periods of inactivity. The rapid accumulation of critical defects in a relatively low-mileage vehicle suggests that the owner may have either driven the car heavily in recent years or failed to address wear issues promptly. This could accelerate further deterioration in suspension, drivetrain, or fluid degradation if not corrected. For the prospective buyer, the most urgent concerns stem from the brake system failures, where rear brake pads are dangerously thin (below 1.5 mm) and the rear service brakes exhibit excessive binding. Immediate inspection is required to verify the condition of all brake components, including disc thickness, pad material, and the integrity of the hydraulic system. On a test drive, listen for unusual grinding noises from the rear brakes when applying pressure, and check for uneven brake pad wear or pulsations that could indicate warped discs. Additionally, the repeated windscreen washer failures suggest a need to inspect the washer fluid reservoir and ensure the pump mechanism is functioning correctly, as this is a common issue with age-related wear in the electrical or mechanical components. Beyond the immediate issues, the tyre advisories from previous MOTs—particularly the nearside front tyres worn close to the legal limit—should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage to the vehicle’s handling and safety. Given the vehicle’s age and moderate mileage, the tyres may also require inspection for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity over time. For fluid systems, check the coolant, brake fluid, and differential/transmission fluid levels, as these can degrade with age even without high mileage. A thorough inspection of the battery health is also advisable, especially if the car has been stored for extended periods, as standing corrosion or internal failure can lead to reliability issues. Lastly, verify the service history to ensure that routine maintenance—such as suspension bush replacements, timing belt servicing, and exhaust emissions checks—has been completed according to the manufacturer’s specifications.