2012 Citroen DS3 1.6L Diesel · YR12 NZD
2012 Citroen DS3 (1.6L, diesel). First registered 31 Mar 2012. Recorded mileage 139,405 miles. MOT expired on 18 Mar 2026. Taxed until 01 Mar 2027.
- Make & Model
- CITROEN DS3
- Year / Origin
- 2012 · Sheffield
- Safety Recall
- Unknown
- MOT Status
- Expired on 18 Mar 2026
- Road Tax
- Taxed (01 Mar 2027)
- Recorded Mileage
- 139,405 mi
- ULEZ Compliance
- Non-Compliant (Pre-Euro 6 Diesel)
- Fuel & Engine
- Diesel · 1.6L
- Reliability Guide
- Common Faults
Thinking of buying this vehicle? Free MOT and tax checks do not cover legal ownership. If outstanding finance exists, finance companies have legal right to repossess without compensation.
YR12 NZD Key Findings
- 5 MOT tests recorded
- Latest MOT passed on 19/03/2025
- 139,405 miles recorded at latest MOT
- 2 historical MOT failures
- 6 defects noted at the latest MOT
- Recurring lighting items (7 mentions)
Derived directly from the recorded DVSA and DVLA data shown on this page.
YR12 NZD MOT History
Interpretation generated from the recorded test data above — not an official DVSA statement and not a substitute for an independent inspection.
5 MOT tests are recorded for this 2012 Citroen Ds3 (YR12 NZD) between February 2023 and March 2025.
The record contains 3 passes and 2 failures.
The most recent test on 19 March 2025 was a pass, although the earlier record includes 2 failures that buyers may want to investigate.
Across all tests, the most frequently flagged areas are: Lighting (7 issues), Brakes (4 issues), Tyres (2 issues). Repeated mentions in one area can indicate an ongoing pattern worth checking in person.
In total 8 advisory notices are recorded. Advisories flag items that passed but may need attention before the next test; they are not evidence of how well the vehicle has been serviced.
YR12 NZD Mileage History
- 13/02/2023120,859 mi
- 13/02/2023120,859 mi
- 05/02/2024132,925 mi+12,066 mi
- 19/03/2025139,405 mi+6,480 mi
- 19/03/2025139,405 mi
Average of roughly 8,856 miles per year across 5 recorded odometer readings.
Technical Specifications
Core Specifications
Identification & Status
Dimensions & Weights
Diagnostic & Valuation Intelligence
Estimate current market value
Generate an instant valuation benchmark based on live market listings, vehicle mileage, and recent dealer auction figures.
Known faults for Citroën Citroën DS3
Our database tracks 3 specific mechanical faults and recurring failure patterns identified across UK MOT testing stations for this generation.
MOT Roadworthiness: Below Average
This rating reflects historical MOT pass rates and recurring advisory wear patterns from official DVSA test logs. Note that roadworthiness does not verify outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen records.
Verify lender finance agreements, insurance write-offs, police stolen registers, and mileage rollback.
Buyer's Guide & Inspection Advisory
Expert automotive synthesis from historical MOT defect records and market benchmarks.
Our Verdict
This 2012 Citroen DS3 is a reasonable option for those seeking a high-mileage diesel hatchback. While the mileage is significant, the recent MOT history suggests a vehicle that is currently meeting minimum safety standards.
Given the high mileage of nearly 140,000 miles, your primary focus should be on the service history. While the MOTs show the car is roadworthy, an MOT is not a substitute for regular mechanical maintenance. Check for evidence of timing belt changes, which are critical on this 1560cc diesel engine at this age and mileage.
When negotiating, consider the high mileage as a lever to reduce the price. Ask the seller for specific details regarding recent work done to address the issues that caused the 2023 and 2025 MOT failures, even though the specific defect types were not listed in the digital record.
The 1.6L diesel engine is generally designed for efficiency, making it suitable for higher annual mileages. However, at this age, maintenance costs may increase as components like suspension and exhaust systems reach the end of their typical lifespans.
Insurance groups for the DS3 vary, so you should obtain a specific quote for this registration. Tax and fuel economy will depend on the specific Euro emission standard of this 2012 model, but diesel engines of this era typically offer competitive MPG for long-distance driving.
Focus your inspection on the underside of the vehicle and the braking system. Although the recent MOTs passed, the previous failures in 2023 and 2025 indicate that certain components required attention to meet legal standards.
Check the condition of the tyres and brake pads, as these are common items that can lead to MOT advisories or failures. Additionally, listen for any unusual engine noise or vibrations that could indicate wear in the diesel powertrain given the 139,405 miles recorded.
This white 1.6L diesel DS3 has covered 139,405 miles since its first registration in March 2012. The MOT history shows a pattern of passing tests, including a clean pass in March 2025. While there have been recorded failures in 2023 and 2025, these were resolved to achieve a pass on the same day.
No aggregate reliability data is currently available for the Citroen DS3 to provide a comparative benchmark.
Reviewed by the IsItAGoodCar editorial team — Verified automotive analysis synthesized from official vehicle registries.
Data Sources
DVSA
Official MOT test logs & failure reasons
DVLA
Tax, registration & powertrain specs
Experian
Finance, stolen markers & total loss
AI Analysis
Historical fault & advisory patterns
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CITROEN DS3 Model Intelligence & Reliability
Verified MOT failure trends, buying advice, and technical directory specifications.
Owner-reported defects, recurring MOT failure points, and estimated repair costs.
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Historical MOT pass rates and DVLA records for 2012 model year cars.
- Timing Chain Stretch (THP & VTi Engines)Serious
The 1.6-litre "Prince" petrol engines are notorious for timing chain tensioner failure and chain stretch, which can lead to catastrophic engine damage.
- High Oil ConsumptionModerate
The petrol engines are known to consume significant amounts of oil (up to 1L per 1,000 miles), which can lead to low oil pressure and accelerated engine wear.
- High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) FailureSerious
The high-pressure fuel pump on THP models is a common failure point, leading to poor running or a non-start condition.
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