CITROEN C3 PICASSO (2012)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 293 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
76%
Total Tests (2024)
293
Avg Mileage
72,293 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,827
Is the 2012 CITROEN C3 PICASSO reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's 6 points below the national average of 82%.
At 12 years old, 76% of CITROEN C3 PICASSOs from 2012 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 293 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 72,293 miles.
How does the 2012 CITROEN C3 PICASSO compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2012 CITROEN C3 PICASSO has 72,293 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 88,800 miles for a 12-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a CITROEN C3 PICASSO?
The most reliable year is the 2017 model with a 84% MOT pass rate, while the 2010 model has the lowest at 66%. The 2012 sits between the two at 76%.
How much does a 2012 CITROEN C3 PICASSO 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 PICASSO by Year
Checking a specific CITROEN C3 PICASSO?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2012 CITROEN C3 PICASSO
The 2012 CITROEN C3 PICASSO is a small family car with a 1598cc petrol engine. 293 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a less common model in the UK market. It sits in the bottom 77% of 2012 cars for MOT pass rates.
With an average of 72,293 miles at 12 years old, CITROEN C3 PICASSO owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2012 CITROEN C3 PICASSO Fuel Costs
The 1598cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 42 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,137 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2012 CITROEN C3 PICASSO?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,827 (£152/month), broken down as £1137 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 76% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
CITROEN C3 PICASSO Reliability Trend
Newer CITROEN C3 PICASSOs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 9 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2012 CITROEN C3 PICASSO
At 12 years old, the CITROEN C3 PICASSO is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2017 model has the highest pass rate at 84%.
Alternatives to the 2012 CITROEN C3 PICASSO
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- VAUXHALL CORSA (2014) 76% pass rate (same) from 141,747 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2013) 78% pass rate (+2%) from 132,292 tests
- NISSAN QASHQAI (2013) 72% pass rate (-4%) from 84,989 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2011) 75% pass rate (-1%) from 79,721 tests