2020 Citroen C1 1.0L Petrol · YC70 AAO

The defining mechanical theme across all four recorded MOT tests for this 2020 Citroen C1 is a steady record of roadworthiness with a recurring front brake disc advisory that has now appeared twice. The most recent test on 2026-03-06 returned a clean pass with no defects recorded, and the 2024 test was similarly unblemished, suggesting that the braking, suspension, emissions, and lighting systems have generally remained within acceptable limits. However, the 2023 test flagged both front brake discs as worn, pitted or scored, and the 2025 test repeated the advisory on the front brake disc as worn though not excessively weakened. Two front brake disc advisories on the same axle across three years points to a component that has been gradually wearing over the life of the car and warrants close physical inspection before purchase, even though neither instance was sufficient to fail the test. With four MOT tests recorded between 2023 and 2026 and a current odometer reading of 38,868 miles, this C1 has averaged roughly 6,478 miles per year over its six-year life, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of its type and age. The mileage progression across tests implies consistent use rather than long periods of standing or unusually high annual accumulation, and there are no significant gaps in the testing history to suggest extended lay-ups. That said, the relatively modest annual mileage means the brake discs have experienced progressive wear over a longer time period, and the tyres flagged in 2023 would have been subject to age-related perishing as well as mechanical wear. Mechanically, a typical usage pattern of this kind puts normal demands on the clutch, suspension bushes, exhaust components, and cooling system, none of which have been flagged in the MOT record to date. For a prospective buyer, the priority on inspection should be the condition of the front brake discs, given that they have appeared as advisories in two of the four recorded tests. On a test drive, listen for any scraping or grinding noise from the front wheels under light braking, and feel for brake pedal pulsation or vibration through the steering wheel under firm application, as both symptoms are consistent with worn or lipped discs that may now be approaching the minimum thickness. Inspect the disc faces visually for a pronounced raised lip at the outer edge and for deep scoring or pitting, and confirm the pads have material remaining, as worn pads accelerate disc wear. The nearside and offside rear tyres were both flagged for slight cracking or perishing in 2023, so any tyres still fitted should be checked for sidewall cracking, tread depth of at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, and overall age, with particular attention to any cracks in the sidewall rubber regardless of tread remaining. Beyond the flagged items, a buyer should perform a general walkaround and test drive focused on the typical weak points of a small city car of this age and mileage. Check the exhaust system for corrosion or blowing joints, particularly at the mounting rubbers and rear silencer, and listen for any exhaust leaks on the overrun or under acceleration. Inspect the underside for any corrosion on the suspension arms, subframe, and brake pipes, as road salt exposure over six winters can cause surface rust even on relatively low-mileage vehicles. On the test drive, listen for clonks or knocks from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn anti-roll bar links, drop links, or suspension bushes, and feel for any pulling to one side under braking that could indicate a binding caliper. Finally, check the operation of the clutch for any slipping or juddering on hill starts, as the clutch is a wear item on any manual C1 of this age and is not covered by the MOT test.