2012 Citroen C3 1.6L Petrol · SM61 CNN

The Citroën C3’s most recent MOT test on 2025-06-26 confirms it passed with no defects recorded at 86,982 miles, though it failed the prior test just one day earlier at 86,961 miles—a rare but documented anomaly. The preceding history from 2023 to 2024 shows consistent passes without advisories, suggesting the vehicle has avoided major recurring issues. However, the back-to-back failures in June 2025, despite identical mileage ranges, warrant scrutiny, as they imply either a last-minute rectification or a test centre error. No structural or mechanical faults have been logged in the last three years, but the abrupt failure before passing raises questions about whether critical components—such as brakes, suspension, or emissions—were serviced between tests. The recorded mileage of 86,982 miles over 14 years aligns with typical usage patterns for this model, averaging around 6,200 miles annually. There are no extended gaps or rapid mileage spikes in the available data, which would otherwise signal neglect or heavy usage. The only notable irregularity is the 5,741-mile jump between the 2024 and 2025 tests, occurring over just over a year, but this does not deviate significantly from the established average. The absence of advisories or partial failures in earlier tests further suggests the vehicle has been maintained at a basic level, though no detailed service history is provided. Given the lack of defects in recent MOTs, a buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of the braking system, as the 2025 failures—if genuine—could indicate marginal wear or binding calipers. The suspension, particularly rear bushes and coil springs, should be checked for excessive play or corrosion, as these components often fail silently before showing up in MOT tests. Exhaust emissions and catalytic converter efficiency, though not flagged, warrant verification, especially if the vehicle has been driven on high-octane fuel or in stop-start traffic. Finally, the underbody and wheel arches should be examined for corrosion, as the C3’s body structure is prone to rust progression over 14 years, even at this mileage. The interior’s seat belts, airbag status, and power-assisted systems should also be tested, as these are not routinely inspected by MOT testers.