2019 Citroen C1 1.0L Petrol · SM68 LVD

The most recent MOT conducted in January 2026 resulted in a pass, but the inclusion of several advisories marks a notable shift in the vehicle's maintenance profile. Previously, the car enjoyed a clean history with no recorded defects between 2023 and 2025, aside from a minor windscreen wiper failure. However, the current advisories regarding tyre condition and brake disc surface quality suggest that the vehicle is now entering a phase where age-related degradation is becoming more prominent than mileage-related wear. While the vehicle remains roadworthy, the trend indicates that several consumable components are approaching the end of their effective service life. With a recorded mileage of 21,676 over approximately seven years, this Citroen C1 has covered an average of just over 3,000 miles per year. This is significantly below the UK national average and confirms the vehicle has been used very sparingly. While low mileage is often viewed as a benefit for engine longevity and drivetrain components, such infrequent use can lead to specific mechanical issues. In particular, low-usage vehicles are susceptible to the degradation of rubber components and the accumulation of surface corrosion on braking surfaces due to a lack of regular, high-temperature operation which typically clears oxidation. During your inspection and test drive, you must pay close attention to the advisory items. The reports of cracking and perishing on the nearside front, offside front, and nearside rear tyres are indicative of rubber age rather than tread wear. You should physically inspect the sidewalls for deep cracks and check the DOT date codes to ensure the tyres are not too old to be safe, as perished rubber can lead to structural failure. Furthermore, the advisory regarding pitted and scored front brake discs is a common symptom of a car that has stood for long periods. On your test drive, listen for any grinding noises and feel for any brake shudder or pulsation through the pedal when applying pressure, which would indicate the discs require replacement to ensure consistent stopping performance. Beyond the recorded advisories, the low-usage profile necessitates a thorough check of other time-sensitive components. Verify the service history to ensure that oil and fluid changes have been conducted on a calendar basis rather than just by mileage, as fluids like brake fluid and engine oil degrade over time regardless of distance. You should also inspect the 12V battery health, as infrequent driving can lead to sulphation and reduced cranking power. Finally, check for any signs of binding calipers or uneven tyre wear, which can occur when a vehicle is not driven frequently enough to keep the braking system fully clear of debris and surface corrosion.