2012 Citroen C3 1.4L Petrol · WK12 WFO

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT in September 2024, but the maintenance trend reveals a worsening pattern of steering and suspension wear. The tester flagged play in both nearside and offside front steering rack inner joints during the 2024-09-07 test at 77,126 miles, an escalation from the slight play noted in the offside front track rod end ball joint on 2023-09-15 at 63,758 miles. A persistent front oil leak appears across multiple tests, indicating a long-standing issue that has not been rectified. While the car remains roadworthy, these recurring steering defects suggest the front end requires thorough investigation. Covering approximately 5,509 miles per year over its 14-year lifespan, this C3 has recorded notably low mileage. The annual MOT tests show a consistent accumulation pattern, jumping from 48,157 miles in September 2021 to 53,025 miles in September 2022, then to 63,758 miles in September 2023, before reaching 77,126 miles in September 2024. This steady increase indicates regular use rather than long periods of standing, though the low overall mileage likely explains the perishing noted on the rear tyres and the gradual deterioration of the exhaust mounts. A physical inspection must prioritise the steering and suspension components given the recurring advisories. The fractured nearside rear coil spring from the failed 2021-09-11 test at 48,157 miles was presumably repaired, but the subsequent onset of steering rack inner joint play points to ongoing wear in the front suspension geometry. Examine the inner steering rack joints and track rod end ball joints for excess movement, and closely inspect the condition of the replacement coil spring. The front brake discs have been flagged as worn and pitted across multiple tests, including the 2022-09-15 and 2021-09-11 inspections, meaning they likely require replacement if not already addressed. Check the exhaust rear mounts for further deterioration and assess the structural integrity of the underbody, as the combination of low mileage and age can cause corrosion on components that rarely reach operating temperature.