2021 Citroen C3 Shine Puretech S/S 1.2L Petrol · ST71 CWN

The most recent MOT on 30 June 2026 was passed, but it carried four advisories – near‑side front tyre close to the legal limit and showing edge wear, front brake disc showing pitting, front brake pads approaching thinness and a defective exhaust mounting. The previous year’s test was also passed with no recorded defects, while the 2024 test flagged both front and rear wishbone bushes as perished. The pattern suggests that the vehicle has been generally road‑worthy but is now showing the early signs of wear on the suspension, braking and tyre components, indicating a slight deterioration rather than an improvement in condition. At 15,943 mi the car is five years old, giving an average of roughly 3,200 mi per annum. This is well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 000 mi per year and points to light or intermittent usage, possibly with periods of standing. Low mileage reduces overall wear on drivetrain and engine parts, yet it can allow age‑related degradation to dominate, such as rubber perishing, corrosion on brake components and tyre sidewall hardening. The uneven edge wear on the near‑side front tyre may be a symptom of mis‑alignment, worn suspension bushes or uneven loading, rather than high mileage. A prospective buyer should give the suspension a thorough tactile inspection. Check the front and rear wishbone bushes for any play, cracking or excessive movement; a clunk or knock when the steering wheel is turned or when the car is driven over bumps would confirm the advisory. Verify that the wheel alignment is within specification, as mis‑alignment can accelerate tyre edge wear. Examine the near‑side front tyre for tread depth, sidewall condition and any signs of cupping; a tyre that is close to the legal limit should be replaced promptly. Inspect the front brake discs for deep scoring or heat‑tint, and confirm that the pads have sufficient material – a shallow pedal feel, brake shudder or pulsation at higher speeds would indicate that the discs or pads are nearing the end of their service life. Listen for rattles from the exhaust system and feel for any vibration that could arise from a loose or cracked exhaust mounting, as this can lead to increased noise and potential exhaust leaks. Given the vehicle’s age and modest mileage, time‑based maintenance is essential. Have the 12 V battery load‑tested, as batteries can deteriorate even when the car sits idle. Check the condition of engine oil, brake fluid and coolant – fluids can absorb moisture and lose effectiveness after several years regardless of mileage, so a change may be prudent. Look for any signs of corrosion on the chassis, under‑body and suspension mounting points, especially if the car has been stored outdoors. Finally, confirm that the service book contains regular oil changes and that any previous suspension work, such as replacement of the wishbone bushes, has been recorded; this will give confidence that the advisories noted in the MOT are being addressed before they develop into costly failures.