The Citigo shares its simple 1.0-litre three-cylinder MPI petrol engine and manual gearbox with the VW Up! and SEAT Mii, so parts and servicing are straightforward and affordable. There’s no diesel or DPF to worry about, but because these cars are often used for short urban trips check for signs of heavy town use (clutch and brakes).

• Clutch bite point and slipping under load — manual clutches in city-used Citigos can be worn at ~10 years.
• Gearbox shift quality and synchro noise (smooth shifts into 2nd/3rd are important on these small manuals).
• Front suspension and steering for knocks or uneven tyre wear (inner-edge wear indicates tracking or worn drop links/track rod ends).
• Corrosion under rear wheelarches, sills and around boot floor/seat bases — Irish salt and age can show on small cars.
• Brake condition and handbrake effectiveness (city cars often have accelerated front brake wear).