2018 Citroen C1 1.0L Petrol · XM09 MAD

The most recent MOT test on the 2018 Citroën C1 recorded a failure in July 2026 due to two persistent issues: an insufficient front windscreen washer system and a malfunctioning tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). However, the preceding MOT in July 2025 was clean, indicating that while the TPMS and washer liquid problems are recurring, they do not appear to be worsening in severity. The vehicle’s maintenance history shows a pattern of stable performance with only minor advisories and failures related to brake wear and tyre condition, suggesting that the owner has been proactive in addressing critical issues but has not yet rectified the persistent TPMS and washer liquid deficiencies. The absence of more serious defects or repeated failures over the past five years points to a generally well-maintained vehicle, though the buyer should address the functional issues to ensure roadworthiness and compliance with legal requirements. The recorded mileage of 38,916 miles for a vehicle aged eight years represents an annual average of approximately 4,864 miles, which is notably lower than the typical usage rates for a car of this age and model. Such low mileage can often reflect periods of inactivity, particularly if the vehicle has been stored for extended durations, which can lead to specific wear patterns and potential issues. For instance, prolonged standing can cause brake discs to corrode or bind within the calipers due to moisture ingress, leading to uneven braking performance or a grinding noise when first used after a break. Additionally, the rear tyre’s slight outer wall damage or perishing noted in previous MOTs may be exacerbated by static conditions, where tyres can dry out or develop cracks over time, compromising grip and structural integrity. The buyer should also consider that low mileage can mask wear on consumables like brake pads and fluids, which may have degraded due to age rather than usage. To proceed with a thorough inspection, the prospective buyer should focus on the front brake system, as the advisories from the 2024 MOTs indicate significant wear on both front pads and discs. The near and offside front brake pads are approaching or have already reached the minimum operational thickness, which could lead to reduced braking efficiency or even seizure if not replaced soon. During a test drive, listen for a grinding or squeaking noise when applying the brakes, particularly at low speeds, which would confirm pad-to-disc contact. Inspect the front brake discs for excessive warping, scoring, or uneven wear, and check for any signs of corrosion or binding within the calipers, which could indicate standing corrosion. If the discs are pitted but not severely weakened, they may still function adequately, but the pads should be replaced to prevent further damage or unsafe braking performance. For the rear tyre with slight outer wall damage or perishing, visually examine the tread depth and the condition of the sidewall, ensuring no cracks or delamination that could compromise the tyre’s structural integrity. Test drive the vehicle at various speeds to assess handling and tyre wear patterns, noting any uneven wear that might indicate misalignment or suspension issues. The front windscreen washer system and TPMS failures should be rectified immediately to ensure compliance with MOT requirements and to prevent potential safety hazards, such as reduced visibility or inaccurate tyre pressure readings. Additionally, given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, the buyer should check the tyre sidewalls for signs of age-related perishing, such as dry rot or cracking, which can weaken the tyre and lead to blowouts. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections, and verify that the 12V battery holds a charge, as low mileage can sometimes lead to battery drain from parasitic loads or prolonged inactivity. Lastly, consider checking the service history for fluid servicing, particularly brake fluid, which should be replaced every five years regardless of mileage due to moisture absorption and degradation.