2017 Peugeot 208 1.2L Petrol · AJ17 EYH

The latest DVSA MOT test for the 2017 Peugeot 208 was conducted on 2025-08-02 and resulted in a passing outcome, though it included an advisory regarding the front suspension arm pin or bush showing signs of wear but not to a level that causes excessive movement on both sides. While this is a recurring issue, the vehicle’s overall MOT history over the past five years demonstrates a pattern of stability rather than deterioration. The earlier failures in 2022 and 2025, particularly the major failure related to excessive blue smoke from the exhaust system, suggest that while the vehicle has been tested regularly, some critical systems have experienced notable wear or faults that required attention. The absence of repeated major defects beyond these instances indicates that the owner has generally managed maintenance proactively, though the suspension and exhaust components remain areas of concern that warrant closer scrutiny. The recorded mileage of 109,902 miles for a vehicle aged nine years represents a high annual usage rate of approximately 12,211 miles per annum, which is notably elevated for its age. Such mileage accumulation typically accelerates wear on consumables like brake pads and discs, suspension components such as ball joints and arm bushes, and drivetrain elements like seals and gaskets. The rapid mileage suggests the vehicle has been driven under conditions that may have subjected it to more stress than a lower-mileage example of the same age, potentially leading to premature fatigue in critical parts. The absence of significant gaps between MOT tests implies consistent use, which could also contribute to issues like fluid degradation over time, particularly in the cooling, brake, and transmission systems, where standing or infrequent use would otherwise mitigate wear. Given the recurring advisories and past failures, the prospective buyer should conduct a thorough inspection of the vehicle’s suspension system, focusing on the front lower arm ball joints and the front suspension arm pin or bush. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, particularly when driving over bumps, as these may indicate further wear in the ball joints or arm bushes. The excessive blue smoke from the exhaust during acceleration points to a potential issue with the fuel injection system, possibly a faulty injector, cracked piston rings, or a blown head gasket. Inspect the exhaust for leaks or unusual vibrations, and consider having the engine run under load to confirm the smoke persists. Additionally, check the brake system for uneven wear or binding calipers, as the thin brake pads and worn discs from previous MOTs suggest that the brake fluid level and condition should be verified, with a recommendation to replace the pads and discs if they have worn below the legal minimum thickness. For the buyer’s practical inspection, examine the vehicle’s tyres for signs of sidewall cracking or perishing, which can occur even at moderate mileage due to the age of the rubber. Check the tyre tread depth for uniformity and signs of excessive cupping or feathering, which may indicate suspension or alignment issues. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion or loose connections, and test the 12V battery’s charge and starting ability, as older vehicles are more prone to battery failure. Verify that all fluid levels—coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid—are topped up and free from contamination, noting that fluids should be replaced according to manufacturer recommendations, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every two to three years for older vehicles. Finally, review the service history for compliance with scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes, timing belt replacement (if applicable), and timing chain inspection, to ensure no critical services were overlooked. If the vehicle has been stored for extended periods, check for standing corrosion on the undercarriage, particularly around the exhaust, wheel arches, and underbody components, as prolonged exposure to moisture can accelerate rust formation.