2012 Citroen DS3 1.6L Diesel · UW02 DJW

The vehicle's roadworthiness shows a worsening trend regarding its exhaust system and suspension components. While the car passed its most recent test on 10 March 2026 at 94,119 miles, the tester identified several immediate concerns. The offside front anti-roll bar linkage and nearside track rod end both exhibit play, and the exhaust system is in a critical state with one snapped bracket and two heavily corroded mountings. This indicates that previous advisories regarding exhaust corrosion have not been addressed, leading to a risk of the system dropping from the vehicle. The mileage accumulation appears consistent with the vehicle's age, averaging approximately 6,700 miles per year. The jump from 69,084 miles in February 2023 to 78,613 miles in March 2024 shows a standard usage pattern, followed by a more significant increase of nearly 14,000 miles between March 2024 and March 2026. This recent increase in annual mileage likely explains the accelerated wear seen in the latest inspection. A prospective buyer should prioritize a physical inspection of the exhaust system to ensure the mounting brackets and hangers are replaced as recommended. The recurring issues with brake discs and pads, which were flagged in 2023 and 2024, suggest a pattern of running consumables toward their limit rather than proactive replacement. You must also check the condition of the suspension bushes and steering linkages, as the recent play in the anti-roll bar and track rod ends suggests the front-end components are nearing the end of their service life. The history of tyre defects, including cracking and perishing noted in both 2023 and 2024, implies that the previous owner may have neglected basic maintenance. Inspect the current tyres for sidewall cracking or uneven wear. Given the persistent reports of corrosion on exhaust mountings and brake discs over the last three years, a thorough check of the underside for structural rust is advisable to ensure the vehicle's long-term integrity.