2012 Citroen C3 1.4L Diesel · VE12 VRR

The most recent MOT, carried out on 24 November 2025, was passed but recorded advisories concerning the off‑side front tyre and near‑side rear tyre being close to the legal tread limit. Earlier in the same year a separate test on 20 November reported the same tyre wear together with wear on both lower front suspension arm pins/bushes, and a failed test in 2024 highlighted a non‑functioning rear stop lamp. The pattern over the last five years shows a shift from outright failures – including dangerous brake‑disc weakening in 2023 and severe tyre damage in 2021 – to a series of advisory items. This indicates that the most serious defects have been addressed, but wear on suspension components, tyres and lighting remains an ongoing concern, so the maintenance trend is stabilising rather than fully improving. At 88,878 mi the car averages just over 6 300 mi per year, which is modest for a 2012 model. Such a low annual mileage often points to periods of limited use or prolonged storage, which can be as consequential as high mileage. Light usage reduces wear on engine internals and drivetrain parts, yet it can allow moisture to settle in brake discs, corrosion to develop on suspension bushings, and battery capacity to deteriorate from inactivity. The relatively low mileage does not mask the progressive tyre and suspension wear evident in the MOT records, so the buyer should treat the vehicle as moderately used but potentially subject to age‑related degradation. When inspecting the car, give particular attention to the front suspension lower arm pins and bushings on both sides; feel for any looseness or clunking when the wheels are rocked and listen for metallic noises over bumps, which would indicate excessive wear beyond the advisory stage. Examine all four tyres for tread depth, sidewall cracking, and any signs of ply exposure or damage, especially on the near‑side front where a ply‑cord fault was previously recorded. Verify that the front brake discs are still within safe thickness – a micrometer or a qualified garage can check this – and test for brake pedal feel, pulsation or shudder that could signal disc thinning or warping. Confirm that the rear stop lamp, both front direction indicators and the registration plate lamp illuminate correctly, as these were recent fault points, and check the wiring for corrosion or loose connectors. Given the vehicle’s age, also inspect for age‑related items not captured by MOT. Look at tyre sidewalls for dry rot, especially if the car has sat for long periods, and ensure the 12 V battery holds a charge and shows no bulging or electrolyte loss. Drain and replace brake fluid if it has not been serviced in the last two years, as moisture absorption can reduce boiling point. Check the engine oil condition, coolant level and colour, and look for any rust on the chassis, wheel arches and under‑body that could indicate prolonged exposure to moisture. A full service history with recent oil changes, timing‑belt or chain verification (if applicable), and evidence of regular coolant and filter replacements will give further confidence in the car’s mechanical soundness.