2010 Citroen DS3 1.6L Diesel · WF10 YSL

The Citroën DS3’s most recent MOT test on 2026-08-04—just over a year ago—confirms it remains roadworthy, though the preceding cycle reveals a troubling pattern of repeated failures. The vehicle failed twice in quick succession in August 2023 and again in August 2022, yet passed the intervening tests. This inconsistency suggests either intermittent neglect or a recurring mechanical issue that was temporarily resolved before resurfacing. Without specific fault codes from the failures, the trend cannot be definitively attributed to a single component, but the lack of defects in passing tests implies the problems were likely minor or easily rectified—such as minor corrosion, worn suspension bushes, or binding brake calipers—rather than catastrophic failures. The most recent pass does not guarantee stability, particularly given the vehicle’s age and mileage. The recorded mileage of 97,778 miles over 16 years equates to approximately 6,111 miles annually, which aligns with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. There are no apparent gaps or spikes in mileage between tests, as all MOTs were conducted within a single day of the previous failure, suggesting the vehicle was either driven regularly or sat unused until the last moment. This pattern does not indicate excessive wear from high mileage nor prolonged neglect from low usage. However, the consistent annual mileage does imply steady consumption of high-wear items like tyres, brake pads, and suspension components, which should be closely inspected. Given the history of repeated failures, a buyer should prioritise an in-person inspection of the suspension system, particularly the bushes and coil springs, as these are common failure points in vehicles of this age. The brakes, especially the rear calipers, warrant scrutiny for binding or excessive wear, as this was likely the cause of past failures. Structural corrosion, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and subframe, should be examined thoroughly, as this is a frequent issue in older Citroën models. Additionally, the exhaust system should be checked for leaks or excessive rust, which could contribute to emission failures. The absence of defect details in the MOT record means these areas may have been overlooked or temporarily patched, so a detailed mechanical assessment is essential.