2015 Citroen DS3 1.6L Diesel · YY15 UPR

The most recent MOT, carried out on 14 August 2026, resulted in a failure. Although the vehicle was recorded as having passed with only advisory items, the same date also shows a failed test due to a non‑functioning nearside position lamp, a non‑operating front windscreen washer, a nearside dipped‑beam headlamp fault and excessive play in the nearside front wheel bearing – all classified as major failures. Coupled with the recurring advisories for oil leakage, front inner brake‑disc wear and a pending recall, the pattern over the last three years points to a deteriorating maintenance state rather than a stabilising one. At 107 475 miles the DS3 has logged an average of just under 9 800 miles per year since its 2015 release, which sits comfortably within the typical UK usage envelope. There are no obvious large gaps in the recorded mileage, suggesting the car has not spent prolonged periods idle, but the steady accumulation does mean that wear items such as suspension bushes, CV joints and brake components will be approaching the end of their service lives. The mileage level also implies that the tyre tread will be well used and that any age‑related degradation of rubber, especially side‑wall cracking, should be inspected closely. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the front wheel bearing on the nearside, which was flagged for excessive play. A bearing on the verge of failure will manifest as a growling or humming noise that varies with vehicle speed and may become more pronounced when turning. The oil leak advisory, although not yet excessive, warrants a visual check for drips around the valve cover and oil filter; persistent leakage can lead to low oil levels and engine wear if not rectified. The brake‑disc advisories for both front and rear discs indicate surface pitting and scoring – these discs will soon require resurfacing or replacement, and any pulsation or shudder under braking should be noted during a test drive. The split CV boot warnings on both front drive shafts are a cause for concern; dirt ingress can degrade the constant‑velocity joints, leading to clicking noises when cornering and eventual loss of drive‑shaft integrity. In addition to the specific faults, the outstanding Citroën recall must be confirmed and cleared before purchase, as it may relate to safety‑critical components. Verify that the lighting faults (position lamp, headlamp and washer) have been remedied, checking for full illumination and proper washer operation. Given the vehicle’s age, inspect the tyre sidewalls for dry‑rot, ensure the 12‑volt battery holds charge and that the terminals are free of corrosion, and confirm that coolant, brake and gearbox fluids have been changed within the recommended intervals – fluid degradation over time can cause overheating, reduced braking efficiency and premature wear of seals. A thorough visual inspection of the under‑carriage for rust, especially around the suspension mounting points and rear subframe, will help gauge whether prolonged exposure to moisture has compromised structural integrity. Addressing these items now will give a clearer picture of the car’s roadworthiness and the likely cost of bringing it up to a reliable standard.