2007 Citroen C4 1.6L Diesel · WM07 VPN

The most recent DVSA examination on 23 September 2025 resulted in a pass, although it should be noted that a fail was issued on the same date immediately prior to the pass, indicating that remedial work was carried out at the test station to address a dangerous headlamp aim defect on the nearside front lamp. The previous pattern across the recorded history shows a broadly stable but increasingly advisory-laden maintenance profile. Each annual test from 2022 onwards has passed, but the volume of advisories has been growing year on year, particularly in respect of the front suspension arm rear bushes and the offside front floor corrosion, suggesting that while the vehicle remains roadworthy in the strict MOT sense, wear-related deterioration is gradually accumulating and the next test may see some of these advisories escalate into major or dangerous categories. With 141,203 miles recorded against an approximate vehicle age of 19 years, this Citroen C4 has averaged around 7,432 miles per year, which is broadly typical for a car of this vintage and avoids the very low annual mileage that often leads to problems with seized components, perished rubber, and flat-spotted tyres. The mileage progression across the recorded tests is steady, with no evidence of significant gaps in use or unusually rapid accumulation that might suggest motorway or fleet-style wear. Nevertheless, at this overall mileage the consumables and major mechanical assemblies will be well past their original design life, so a prospective buyer should expect that significant components such as the clutch, timing belt (if applicable to this engine), and suspension have been replaced or are approaching the point of needing replacement. The recurring advisory regarding the front lower suspension arm rear bushes, noted on every test from 2022 through 2025, is the most significant mechanical concern. These bushes should be inspected for visible cracking, splitting, or deformation, and on a test drive one should listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension, particularly when traversing speed bumps, potholes, or undulating road surfaces, and feel for vagueness or imprecise steering response. The 2022 advisory regarding a deteriorated offside front drive shaft CV boot is also a concern, as a split boot will quickly lead to joint contamination and eventual failure, so this should be physically inspected for any signs of grease leakage, perished rubber, or recent replacement. The 2023 dangerous failures for tyre tread depth below 1.6mm and the advisories regarding offside rear tyre wear indicate that the vehicle has been hard on its tyres, and a buyer should check for uneven shoulder wear which could point to misalignment, worn suspension components, or binding brake calipers. The 2021 failure for parking brake efficiency below requirements may also indicate caliper or rear brake mechanism issues, particularly given the vehicle's tendency to stand between uses, which can lead to seized caliper pistons and corroded brake discs. Beyond the recorded defects, the age and mileage of this vehicle warrant several physical checks that fall outside the scope of MOT testing but are essential to a sound purchase. Brake discs should be inspected for lipping and surface corrosion, as standing periods can cause the calipers to bind and the discs to corrode, leading to brake shudder or pulling on application. The 12 volt battery is likely to be original or long-in-service and should be tested for its state of charge and cranking performance, particularly given the reported headlamp aim issue which can sometimes be linked to a weak charging system. All fluids, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, should be checked for condition and age, as brake fluid in particular is hygroscopic and should be replaced on a calendar basis regardless of mileage. Tyres should be examined for sidewall cracking and perishing, which is common on older vehicles, and the exhaust system should be checked for corrosion, particularly at the mounting points and joints, as a nineteen year old exhaust will be approaching the end of its service life. Finally, the offside front floor corrosion advisory, although outside the prescribed structural area, should be physically inspected to ensure it has not progressed further and to confirm that there are no other areas of concern hidden beneath trim or underseal.