2009 Peugeot 207 1.4L Petrol · AO09 GDV

A recurring theme in the MOT record is progressive suspension failure – both near‑side front and rear coil springs have been recorded as fractured or broken on separate tests (2022 and 2024) and the car also carries repeated brake‑binding advisories, including an off‑side rear service brake that was deemed excessively binding in 2020. The front exhaust mounting was flagged as defective in the latest 2025 test, while tyre side‑wall cuts and a modest oil leak have persisted as advisories across several years. Although the most recent MOT was passed, the pattern shows that major structural and braking components have required attention on multiple occasions. At 113,277 mi spread over roughly 17 years the average annual distance is about 6,600 mi, which sits within normal usage for a vehicle of this age. The MOT history shows no long gaps in testing, suggesting the mileage has been logged consistently. The wear‑related failures observed are more indicative of age‑related fatigue in suspension components rather than excessive mileage, but the moderate mileage still means the drivetrain, bearings and wear items will have accumulated a fair amount of use. When inspecting the suspension, feel for any sag or uneven ride height and listen for metallic knocking over bumps, which can indicate a cracked coil spring or deteriorated bushings. Verify that the vehicle sits level and that the rear and front springs compress and rebound smoothly; any excessive play or uneven compression may point to the previously failed springs being replaced inadequately. During a slow‑speed brake test, note any pedal pulsation, pulling to one side, or a stiff pedal that does not release fully, as these symptoms align with the historic brake‑binding advisories and could reveal lingering caliper or hose issues. Check the front exhaust for rattles or exhaust fumes entering the cabin, which would confirm the front exhaust mounting defect noted in 2025. Inspect the rear exhaust mounting points for looseness or rattling, recalling the 2020 failure. Examine the tyre sidewalls for the cuts recorded in 2025; even shallow cuts can propagate under load, so look for any bulging or loss of tread integrity. Finally, a visual inspection under the engine bay for fresh oil stains will verify whether the ongoing oil‑leak advisory remains a minor seep or has worsened, and a quick check of the dashboard for a functioning MIL indicator will ensure the engine warning light is operational after the 2020 failure.