2008 Citroen C1 1.4L Diesel · WG57 WMK

The Citroën C1 presents a clean MOT history with no defects recorded across its five most recent tests, spanning from March 2023 to April 2025. The vehicle passed its last two tests in quick succession—first failing on 10 April 2025 at 133,560 miles, then passing just five days later at 133,573 miles—before repeating the pattern a year later. This pattern of alternating fails and passes without any recorded defects suggests administrative or procedural issues rather than mechanical concerns. The absence of advisories or failures related to critical components like brakes, suspension, or structural integrity indicates that, at least on paper, the car has been maintained to a standard that avoids major roadworthiness red flags. However, the repeated failures without explanation raise questions about the thoroughness of previous inspections or potential test station inconsistencies. The mileage accumulation of 7,640 miles per year aligns closely with the average for a vehicle of this age, suggesting consistent but not excessive use. The gaps between tests—approximately 12 months—are standard for MOT frequency, though the back-to-back failures in both 2024 and 2025 are unusual. The mileage increments between tests are minimal (around 100–150 miles), which could imply the car was driven short distances or stored between tests, possibly affecting wear on components like tyres, brakes, and suspension. There is no evidence of rapid mileage accumulation that might suggest neglect, nor are there long periods of inactivity that could exacerbate issues like seized bearings or degraded fluids. Given the lack of defects in the MOT record, a buyer should still prioritise a pre-purchase inspection focusing on components prone to silent degradation in vehicles of this age. Pay particular attention to the suspension—specifically the condition of rubber bushes, coil springs, and ball joints—since these often wear without immediate MOT consequences. The brake system, including calipers, pads, and discs, should be checked for uneven wear or corrosion, especially if the car has been driven in urban or stop-start conditions. Exhaust emissions and the integrity of the exhaust system, including mounts and silencers, are also worth verifying, as these can degrade over time without triggering an MOT failure. Finally, inspect the underbody and wheel arches for signs of corrosion, particularly around the sills and wheel wells, as rust in these areas can compromise structural integrity long before it becomes visually obvious.