2017 Citroen C1 1.2L Petrol · WN17 DFC

The most recent MOT test conducted in February 2026 resulted in a pass, but only after a failure due to an excessively binding offside front service brake, accompanied by an advisory for a binding nearside front brake. This recent failure marks a shift in the vehicle's maintenance trend, moving from a period of relative stability into a phase of component degradation. While the earlier years of the MOT history were largely free of defects, the recent emergence of braking issues, following previous advisories for worn brake discs and tyres in 2023, suggests that the braking system is currently the primary area of concern and requires close monitoring. With a recorded mileage of 14,125 miles over nine years, the vehicle has averaged approximately 1,569 miles per year. This is significantly lower than the national average and indicates very light usage. While this may suggest less mechanical wear on the engine and gearbox, such low mileage often implies the vehicle has spent considerable time stationary. This pattern of infrequent use is a common cause of the specific issues seen in the MOT history, such as brake binding, as components can seize or develop corrosion when they are not regularly operated through their full range of motion and thermal cycles. During your inspection and test drive, you must pay particular attention to the braking performance. Listen for any grinding, squealing, or scraping noises from the front wheels and feel for any uneven pulling to one side when applying the brakes. A pulsating sensation through the brake pedal may indicate that the discs are warped or have uneven wear. Given the 2025 advisory regarding a worn drive belt, you should visually inspect the belt for signs of cracking, fraying, or glazing, as a snapped belt will result in an immediate loss of auxiliary functions. Ensure that the recent brake repairs addressed both the offside and nearside issues to prevent a recurrence of the binding. Due to the low annual mileage, you should also conduct a thorough physical inspection for age-related degradation that mileage alone does not reveal. Check the tyres for sidewall perishing or cracking, as rubber compounds can harden and crack from age even if the tread depth remains high. Inspect the vehicle's underside for signs of corrosion or fluid leaks that may have developed from long periods of standing. It is also vital to verify the service history to confirm that oil, coolant, and brake fluid changes have been carried out based on time intervals rather than just mileage, as stagnant fluids can lose their protective qualities and cause internal component damage. Finally, test the condition of the 12V battery, as infrequent driving can lead to sulphation and reduced cranking power.