2021 Peugeot 308 1.5L Diesel · KN21 AVZ

Front‑track rod end ball joints have proven to be the recurring weak point on this 2021 Peugeot 308, with excessive play recorded on both the nearside and offside in separate MOT failures in 2024 and 2025, and a missing brake‑pedal anti‑slip provision flagged as a major defect in 2024. The vehicle cleared its most recent test in March 2026 without further remarks, suggesting the identified faults were remedied, but the history shows a pattern of front‑suspension wear that has required corrective action within a short interval. At 90,817 miles the car averages roughly 18,000 miles per year, a mileage level that sits above the typical usage for a five‑year‑old family hatchback. Such an annual accumulation accelerates wear on consumables such as brake pads, tyres, and suspension bushings, and it also places additional stress on steering linkages and drivetrain components. The MOT record shows no gaps in testing, indicating the vehicle has been regularly presented for inspection, but the high mileage underscores the need to verify that wear items have been replaced in line with the mileage incurred. When assessing the front suspension, feel for any looseness or clunking when the steering wheel is turned at low speed and when driving over bumps; excessive play in the track rod ends will manifest as a vague wandering feel or uneven tyre wear on the front axle. Inspect the ball‑joint housings for signs of corrosion or leaking grease, and verify that the steering rack and tie‑rod ends are free of binding. Given the previous brake‑pedal anti‑slip omission, press the pedal firmly to ensure a solid, non‑slipping surface and watch for any unusual pedal travel or judder that could indicate underlying brake‑system wear. A comprehensive pre‑purchase check should include a full brake inspection—pads, discs and caliper operation—to confirm that the anti‑slip issue was correctly addressed and that no secondary wear has developed. Examine tyre tread depth and uniformity, especially on the front wheels, as high mileage combined with front‑suspension degradation can produce uneven wear patterns. Finally, a professional suspension and steering alignment check will reveal whether the repaired ball joints have settled correctly and will highlight any ancillary component wear that may have arisen from the earlier deficiencies.