2016 Peugeot 208 1.2L Petrol · AP66 FDV

The most recent MOT inspection on 16 December 2025 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance trend indicates a recurring and worsening issue regarding tyre degradation. While the vehicle has consistently passed its tests since 2019, the frequency and nature of advisories related to tyre perishing have increased significantly over the last four years. The failure in December 2024, which was classified as dangerous due to exposed cords on the nearside front tyre, highlights a critical lapse in preventative maintenance. Although the vehicle is currently passing, the persistent advisories for cracking and perishing on multiple tyres suggest that the rubber is reaching the end of its safe service life due to age rather than tread wear. The recorded mileage of 20,392 miles for a 2016 model is exceptionally low, averaging approximately 2,039 miles per year. While low mileage often suggests less mechanical wear on the engine and drivetrain, this specific usage profile is highly characteristic of a vehicle that spends long periods stationary. In automotive terms, infrequent use can be as detrimental as high mileage. The lack of regular movement often leads to the degradation of rubber components, such as tyres and various seals, and can cause issues with fluid stagnation and battery health. The MOT history confirms this pattern, as the primary defects are related to the age-related perishing of tyres rather than mechanical component wear from high-frequency driving. During your test drive, you must pay close attention to the condition of all four tyres. Even if the tread depth appears sufficient, look closely at the sidewalls and within the grooves for fine cracks or a weathered appearance, which indicates the rubber has become brittle. You should also check for any uneven tyre wear, which could indicate underlying suspension issues or incorrect wheel alignment caused by the vehicle standing for long periods. Furthermore, pay attention to the exhaust system. The 2024 failure noted a defective central front exhaust mounting, and previous years noted corrosion on the flexi-section. Listen for any excessive vibration, rattling, or loud droning from the underside of the car, which could signal that the exhaust mounts or the flexible section are failing or have not been adequately addressed. Given the low annual mileage, you should conduct a thorough physical inspection of the vehicle's fluids and battery. Check the engine oil and coolant for signs of moisture or degradation, as fluids can absorb contaminants or lose their protective properties when not cycled through the system regularly. Inspect the brake discs for heavy surface corrosion or pitting, which is common when a car is not driven frequently, and listen for any binding or grinding sounds that might suggest calipers are sticking due to inactivity. Finally, verify the service history to ensure that even though the mileage is low, the vehicle has been serviced on a time-basis to account for oil degradation and other calendar-based maintenance requirements.