2014 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · TY64 OLY

The most recent MOT, carried out on 12 July 2022, was passed with a single advisory concerning a defective off‑side windscreen wiper blade; no safety‑critical failures were recorded. Over the seven‑year record the pattern shows a gradual reduction in the number and severity of advisories – early years were dominated by tyre‑wear alerts and thin front brake pads, while the latest test only highlighted a minor wiper issue. This suggests that the vehicle’s maintenance regime has been reasonably consistent and that any major wear items have been addressed, indicating a stabilising rather than deteriorating condition. With 67 397 miles on the clock and a 2014 registration, the car averages just over 5 600 miles per annum, well below the typical UK usage of around 10‑12 000 miles per year. The low annual mileage points to either light, infrequent use or periods of prolonged storage. Both scenarios can be benign, yet they also raise the possibility of age‑related degradation such as tyre rubber perishing, battery electrolyte loss, and corrosion of suspension components that have not been exercised regularly. No significant mileage spikes appear in the MOT records, so excessive wear from high‑speed or high‑load operation is unlikely. When inspecting the vehicle, give particular attention to the tyre set. Verify that all four tyres are of the same specified size and type, and confirm that tread depth exceeds 3 mm uniformly across the tread face, watching for sidewall cracking or uneven wear that could indicate mis‑alignment or worn suspension bushes. Test the brakes for any pedal pulsation, squeal, or reduced bite, as the MOT advisories on thin front pads in 2018 and 2019 suggest the pads may be approaching the end of their service life and the discs could be scored. Ensure the off‑side windscreen wiper blade is replaced and that all external lamps, especially the registration plate lamp that failed in 2017, illuminate correctly. Finally, conduct a broader age‑related appraisal. Examine the under‑tray and engine covers for rust or loose fastenings, a common issue on cars that have spent time idle. Check the 12‑volt battery for terminal corrosion and test its cranking voltage; a battery of this age often benefits from a load test or replacement. Inspect the suspension for any play in the ball joints, worn bushings, or leaking shock absorbers, and look for signs of fluid degradation – oil, coolant and brake fluid should be clear and within service intervals, as calendar ageing can cause loss of lubricity even on low‑mileage vehicles. A thorough visual and road‑test inspection covering these points will give a prospective buyer confidence in the car’s current roadworthiness and highlight any imminent maintenance that may be required.