2018 Peugeot 308 1.2L Petrol · KM18 TTE

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2018 Peugeot 308 on 2026-08-04 resulted in a clean pass, marking a return to full compliance after a series of advisories and one failure in 2021. The overall maintenance trend over the past five years is stable, with no critical failures beyond the 2021 wiper-related issues, which were straightforward and easily rectifiable. The advisories—particularly those related to tyre wear, anti-roll bar ball joints, and rear brake disc condition—have been consistently present but non-failing, suggesting a pattern of gradual wear rather than sudden deterioration. This consistency indicates that while the vehicle has experienced some wear-related advisories, it has not developed into critical defects requiring immediate attention. The recorded mileage of 52,101 miles for an eight-year-old model reflects a moderate annual usage rate of approximately 6,513 miles per year, which is typical for its age and class. There are no evident signs of excessive mileage accumulation, which might suggest higher wear on consumables, suspension, or drivetrain components, but the steady progression aligns with reasonable driving habits. However, the presence of multiple advisories—particularly around tyre wear and anti-roll bar ball joints—could imply that the vehicle has been subjected to some stress, possibly from uneven driving conditions or prolonged periods in standing positions, which can exacerbate wear in these areas. The lack of significant mileage spikes suggests that the wear observed is more likely due to usage patterns rather than rapid degradation from high mileage alone. Given the advisories on tyre wear and their proximity to legal limits, the buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the front tyres, particularly the offside and nearside edges, to confirm the extent of lateral wear and check for signs of uneven tread depth or irregular wear patterns. On a test drive, listen for any unusual suspension noises, such as clunks or rattles, which could indicate further play in the anti-roll bar ball joints. The rear brake discs, which were noted as pitted but not seriously weakened, should be visually inspected for signs of excessive heat damage, warping, or uneven wear, and the braking system should be tested for consistent pedal feel and absence of shuddering or vibration. Additionally, verify that the under-tray obstructions do not impede access to critical components like the exhaust system or fluid reservoirs, as this could affect future inspections or servicing. For the broader physical assessment, given the vehicle’s age and the advisories present, the buyer should check for tyre sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity over time, especially if the tyres have been stored in poor conditions. Inspect the front suspension for signs of corrosion, particularly around the ball joints and anti-roll bar linkages, as standing for prolonged periods can accelerate rusting. The 12V battery should be tested for voltage output and overall health, as older vehicles are more susceptible to failure from prolonged inactivity. Fluid levels—particularly the engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid—should be checked for contamination or degradation, with a recommendation to replace them according to the manufacturer’s time-based intervals, even if mileage is moderate. Finally, verify that the service book or maintenance records are up to date, as this will provide a clear history of previous inspections and any scheduled maintenance that has been missed.