2013 Citroen DS3 1.6L Diesel · WN13 SPU

A clear and recurring pattern of exhaust mounting deterioration runs through the MOT history of this 2013 Citroen DS3, with the rear exhaust mounting flagged as defective or insecure in 2019, 2021, 2022 (twice), and continuing to be the most consistent advisory across the recorded tests. More concerning is the February 2022 failure, where both rear coil springs were recorded as fractured and a nearside front direction indicator showed an incorrect colour, alongside an advisory noting the offside front indicator was affected by another lamp. Since that failure, the vehicle has passed three consecutive tests in 2023, 2024, and 2026 with no defects recorded on the most recent test, suggesting the major suspension and lighting issues have been resolved, though the underlying chassis and underbody wear that produced those component failures is worth bearing in mind given the car's age. Annual mileage on this DS3 averages out at roughly 4,014 miles over thirteen years, which is low for a vehicle of this vintage and points to either genuinely light use or extended periods of inactivity. There are notable gaps in the MOT history, with no test recorded for 2020 and another gap between mid-2019 and early 2021, which combined with the low annual mileage suggests the car may have spent considerable time off the road. Such usage patterns typically accelerate the deterioration of rubber components, brake discs, and underbody finishes through lack of regular loading and movement, and the fractured rear coil springs recorded in 2022 are consistent with the kind of fatigue failure that can develop in springs on a lightly used or intermittently stored vehicle. For a prospective buyer, the rear coil spring failures are the most significant historical item and warrant close inspection on a test drive. Listen for any clonking or rattling from the rear suspension over uneven road surfaces, particularly bumps and potholes, and check visually for any sagging at the rear which would indicate a compromised spring on the opposite side. Pay attention to the front suspension, as the 2022 advisory flagged a worn pin or bush on the nearside front lower suspension arm inner rear location; any knocking from the front under braking or over speed bumps, or vague or wandering steering, would suggest this joint has progressed further. The condition of the rear brake discs should also be examined, given the 2021 advisory noting wear and pitting, and a spongy or juddering pedal feel during a firm stop would indicate the discs have corroded further during any subsequent period of low use. The exhaust system requires particular attention given the repeated advisories on the rear mounting and the specific 2021 note about the mount before the back box. On inspection, check that the rear silencer is properly supported and not hanging low, and listen for any metallic buzzing, rattles, or exhaust drone that would indicate a failed rubber mount or a cracked pipe joint. The offside front inner road wheel distortion advisory from 2025 should be checked by jacking the front and rotating the wheel by hand to feel for any hop or run-out, and the nearside front tyre should be examined for any cuts reaching the cords even if the 2023 advisory was deemed shallow. Given the gaps in testing and low mileage, also examine all visible underbody components, suspension arms, brake pipes, and mounting points for surface corrosion, and ensure all direction indicators operate with the correct amber colour rather than any white or red tint, addressing the original lighting defects from 2022.