2012 Citroen C3 1.6L Diesel · SO12 KZH

The 2012 Citroën C3’s most recent MOT test on 2025-04-24—just under a year ago—shows a clean pass with no defects or advisories, though it is worth noting the unusual dual entry of both a pass and a fail at the same mileage. This suggests the vehicle was tested twice in quick succession, likely due to a procedural error rather than genuine mechanical failure. The preceding tests in 2024 and 2023 also passed without failings, indicating a stable roadworthiness record over the past three years. However, the lack of advisories or minor faults in any of these tests means there is no evidence of recurring issues that would warrant immediate concern. That said, the absence of any recorded defects does not preclude the need for a thorough independent inspection, particularly for components not routinely checked in an MOT. The vehicle’s mileage of 53,770 miles over 14 years equates to an average of approximately 3,841 miles per year, which is unusually low for a car of this age. The recorded mileage increments are consistent but sparse, with only three distinct MOT dates spanning nearly three years. The gap between the 2023 test at 50,471 miles and the 2024 test at 51,773 miles suggests the car was not driven significantly between those dates, which could imply long periods of inactivity. While low mileage generally correlates with less wear on suspension bushes, coil springs, and drivetrain components, it also raises questions about whether the vehicle has been stored properly, potentially leading to issues like flat tyres, seized wheel bearings, or corrosion from moisture accumulation. Given the clean MOT history, the primary focus of an independent inspection should centre on the suspension and steering components, which are often overlooked in routine MOT checks. The lack of advisories does not guarantee these areas are free from deterioration—check for worn or cracked suspension bushes, particularly at the rear, where binding calipers or uneven wear on brake discs could indicate neglect. The brakes themselves appear to have passed all tests, but the tester’s failure to note any advisories on brake pad thickness or disc condition means a visual inspection of pad material remaining and disc run-out is essential. Additionally, given the low mileage and potential storage history, inspect for corrosion at wheel arches, sills, and the subframe, as well as the integrity of the exhaust system for leaks or rust through. Tyre tread depth and lateral wear patterns should also be verified, as the absence of MOT failings on tyres does not confirm they have been replaced regularly.