2010 Citroen C5 2.0L Diesel · VK60 WHW

The vehicle presents a concerning roadworthiness profile characterized by a trend of recurring mechanical neglect and deferred maintenance. While it passed its most recent test in November 2025 at 183,416 miles, this followed a significant failure just three miles prior due to severe emissions issues and visible smoke. The history shows a pattern where faults are only addressed when necessary to pass a test, rather than through proactive care, leading to persistent issues across multiple high-mileage components. At 183,416 miles, this 16-year-old Citroen C5 has averaged approximately 11,500 miles per year, which is consistent with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. However, the mileage accumulation between October 2023 and November 2024 shows over 2,400 miles driven in a year, followed by another 2,800 miles leading into the 2025 tests. This consistent usage places significant strain on the aging suspension and braking systems, which is reflected in the frequent failures and advisories across the record. A buyer must conduct a thorough inspection of the suspension and braking systems, which have shown worsening conditions over several years. The nearside rear brake progressed from minor binding in 2023 to excessive binding in 2024, eventually resulting in pitted and scored discs by late 2025. The anti-roll bar linkages and ball joints have been flagged for play and corrosion since 2024, indicating significant wear in the steering geometry. Furthermore, the nearside front drive shaft CV boot was noted as pin holed in 2024, which poses a risk of imminent joint failure if not recently replaced. The November 2025 failure regarding visible smoke and the inability to complete emissions tests suggests potential deep issues with the diesel particulate filter or fuel system that may not be fully resolved. The recurring mentions of corrosion on the coil springs and anti-roll bars noted in 2024 suggest that the structural integrity of the undercarriage is battling against rust. Any inspection should prioritize checking for structural rust and verifying that the various components flagged in the MOT history have been replaced with high-quality parts rather than merely patched.