2023 Citroen C4 MAX Puretech S/S 1.2L Petrol · SM05 ABY

The most recent DVSA MOT test, conducted on 13 March 2026, resulted in a PASS with no defects or advisories recorded. The vehicle has demonstrated a broadly stable maintenance trajectory, having passed its previous assessment on 20 March 2025 with no recorded defects as well. It is worth noting that the earlier test on 18 October 2024 initially recorded a failure, but no specific defect categories were captured against that entry, and the vehicle was resubmitted on the same date and subsequently passed. With two consecutive clean tests on either side of that earlier event and no advisories accumulating, the regulatory record does not raise any immediate concerns regarding roadworthiness or progressive deterioration. The absence of advisory items, which often serve as early indicators of wear on components such as brake pads, tyres, or suspension bushes, suggests that the vehicle has been either well maintained or used within the design tolerances of its consumables. The recorded mileage of 54,812 miles over a three-year period equates to an annual usage rate of approximately 18,271 miles, which is notably higher than the UK average for a vehicle of this age. This sustained and consistent accumulation suggests the C4 has likely been used for regular longer-distance commuting or fleet-style operation rather than sporadic short journeys. From a mechanical standpoint, higher mileage typically accelerates wear on drivetrain components, clutch friction material, brake discs and pads, and suspension elements such as coil springs, shock absorbers, and anti-roll bar bushes. There are no significant mileage gaps evident in the MOT history, implying the vehicle has been in continuous service, which generally reduces the risk of standing-related issues such as seized calipers or fluid degradation through disuse. However, the higher mileage does warrant closer scrutiny of those wear-prone items during a physical inspection. Given the clean MOT history and the absence of recorded advisories, there is no specific defect pattern to investigate. Instead, the prospective buyer should focus on age and mileage-appropriate checks that fall outside the scope of the standard MOT test. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for perishing or cracking caused by UV exposure, particularly as original equipment rubber compounds degrade after three to four years regardless of tread depth. Brake discs should be inspected for lipping, corrosion around the outer edge, and any signs of binding calipers, which can manifest as pulling to one side under braking or uneven pad wear. The 12-volt battery should be tested for cranking performance and state of health, as modern vehicles with start-stop systems and extensive electrical loads place greater demand on battery longevity. Coolant, brake fluid, and gearbox oil should also be verified in terms of service intervals, since these fluids degrade over time independent of mileage. During the test drive, particular attention should be paid to the operation of the PureTech petrol engine, paying close attention to the timing belt or chain condition, water pump function, and any signs of oil consumption which have been known issues on certain variants of this engine family. Listen for any timing chain rattle on cold start, monitor the temperature gauge for irregular rises indicating cooling system inefficiency, and check for blue exhaust smoke suggesting oil burn. The clutch should be assessed for slipping under load, a high biting point, or any juddering during take-off, given the higher than average mileage. Suspension should be evaluated by driving over uneven surfaces to detect any clonks or knocks from worn bushes or top mounts, while the steering should remain precise without vibration through the wheel. Finally, verifying a full and consistent main dealer or specialist service history will be essential to confirm that the higher mileage has been matched by timely replacement of consumables such as spark plugs, air filters, and brake fluid, ensuring the long-term reliability expected of a modern Citroen passenger vehicle.