CITROEN C3 (2016)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 14,550 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
81%
Total Tests (2024)
14,550
Avg Mileage
49,050 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,340
Is the 2016 CITROEN C3 reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's close to the national average of 82%.
At 8 years old, 81% of CITROEN C3s from 2016 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 14,550 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 49,050 miles.
How does the 2016 CITROEN C3 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2016 CITROEN C3 has 49,050 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 59,200 miles for a 8-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a CITROEN C3?
The most reliable year is the 2021 model with a 95% MOT pass rate, while the 2003 model has the lowest at 66%. The 2016 sits between the two at 81%.
How much does a 2016 CITROEN C3 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
CITROEN C3 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 95% | 2,263 | 22,520 mi |
| 2020 | 92% | 8,971 | 27,660 mi |
| 2019 | 90% | 21,008 | 34,490 mi |
| 2018 | 87% | 27,579 | 42,489 mi |
| 2017 | 83% | 26,229 | 48,621 mi |
| 2016 | 81% | 14,550 | 49,050 mi |
| 2015 | 80% | 20,260 | 57,154 mi |
| 2014 | 78% | 23,397 | 63,397 mi |
| 2013 | 75% | 23,764 | 72,482 mi |
| 2012 | 74% | 27,170 | 78,633 mi |
| 2011 | 72% | 28,478 | 86,832 mi |
| 2010 | 70% | 34,884 | 92,470 mi |
| 2009 | 70% | 18,371 | 90,369 mi |
| 2008 | 69% | 9,548 | 82,491 mi |
| 2007 | 69% | 10,339 | 83,180 mi |
| 2006 | 69% | 9,119 | 82,871 mi |
| 2005 | 68% | 7,830 | 85,484 mi |
| 2004 | 68% | 6,480 | 84,830 mi |
| 2003 | 66% | 5,188 | 87,266 mi |
| 2002 | 67% | 1,745 | 92,973 mi |
Checking a specific CITROEN C3?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2016 CITROEN C3
The 2016 CITROEN C3 is a small family car with a 1398cc diesel engine. 14,550 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it one of the most commonly tested cars on UK roads. It sits in the bottom 81% of 2016 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 49,050 miles at 8 years old, CITROEN C3 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2016 CITROEN C3 Fuel Costs
The 1398cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 55 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £905 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2016 CITROEN C3?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,340 (£112/month), broken down as £905 fuel, £30 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 81% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
CITROEN C3 Reliability Trend
Newer CITROEN C3s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 15 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2016 CITROEN C3
At 8 years old, this is a solid used buy if you find one with good service history. Depreciation has levelled off, so you won't lose much more value. Focus on condition over mileage. If you're flexible on year, the 2021 model has the highest pass rate at 95%. With 14,550 MOT tests in our data, there's strong statistical confidence in these figures.
Alternatives to the 2016 CITROEN C3
If reliability is your priority, there are 3 similar cars with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2017) 91% pass rate (+10%) from 127,682 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2014) 79% pass rate (-2%) from 90,897 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2018) 89% pass rate (+8%) from 82,066 tests
- MERCEDES A-CLASS (2017) 88% pass rate (+7%) from 82,055 tests