2015 Peugeot 308 1.2L Petrol · RA65 AAN

The most recent DVSA MOT test on the 2015 Peugeot 308 occurred on 2026-06-12, resulting in a passing grade despite the presence of minor defects. While the vehicle has not faced a failure since 2025-07-02, the trend over the past three years shows a pattern of recurring issues rather than consistent stability. The 2025-07-02 failure highlighted both a persistent oil leak and a rear tyre nail, alongside a registration plate lamp failure, indicating potential underlying wear or manufacturing inconsistencies. The 2026-06-12 test identified a near-side front suspension arm ball joint dust cover deterioration, which suggests progressive wear in this area, warranting closer attention to prevent further mechanical compromise. These recurring advisories and minor failures point to a need for proactive maintenance rather than reactive repairs, particularly concerning the suspension components and exhaust system. The recorded mileage of 67,233 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 11 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 6,112 miles per year, which is within the expected range for this model’s age and typical driving conditions. Such mileage accumulation is neither excessively high nor low, but it does imply consistent exposure to wear and tear across key systems. The absence of significant mileage gaps suggests the vehicle has been in regular use, which can accelerate the degradation of consumables like brake pads, suspension components, and fluids. However, the oil leak advisories and potential suspension wear indicate that even moderate mileage can lead to critical issues if not addressed promptly, particularly in areas prone to fluid ingress or mechanical fatigue. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a physical examination include the front suspension system, as the ball joint dust cover deterioration and excessive play in the track rod end from past MOT failures suggest compromised joint integrity. Listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps, particularly on the near-side suspension, which may indicate loose or failing bushings or ball joints. Additionally, check for uneven tyre wear patterns, as excessive play in the track rod end could lead to misalignment and premature tyre degradation. Inspect the exhaust system for signs of further cracking or leaks, as the recent major failure highlighted a split exhaust box pipe, which could worsen with continued use. A thorough visual check of the oil leak area around the engine bay is also essential, ensuring no further fluid loss is occurring, as oil consumption can accelerate wear on piston rings and valve train components. Beyond the mechanical checks, focus on the vehicle’s standing condition and time-based maintenance. Given the age and mileage, inspect the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur from prolonged exposure to UV light and road salt, even if the tread remains serviceable. Verify the condition of the 12V battery, as prolonged idling or standing can lead to corrosion on terminals or reduced capacity, which may not be apparent during a test drive. Check the brake system for signs of corrosion on discs or calipers, particularly on the near-side where binding may occur due to standing. Ensure all fluids—oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid—are at the correct levels and show no signs of degradation or contamination, as fluid aging can compromise performance and safety. Finally, review the service history for any missing or outdated stamps, especially for fluid replacements and suspension component inspections, to ensure compliance with manufacturer-recommended intervals. If the service book is incomplete, consider scheduling a professional inspection to address any gaps in maintenance.