1984 Peugeot 205 1.4L Petrol · B247 VTM

The most recent MOT, carried out on 10 February 2023, was recorded as a pass but was accompanied by a series of minor and advisory items – a damaged windscreen, non‑excessive oil and coolant leaks and corrosion‑covered front brake pipes on both sides. Over the last six years the vehicle has moved from a dangerous failure on the front brake disc in July 2021 to a clean pass, yet the persistence of leaks, corrosion and wear‑related advisories indicates that while the most acute safety fault has been remedied, the overall maintenance picture remains one of ongoing, age‑related deterioration rather than a clear improvement. At 87 163 miles the car averages just over two thousand miles per year, a very low utilisation for a 1984 model. Such limited use often points to long periods of storage, which can accelerate rubber ageing, battery sulphation and under‑carriage corrosion, while the relatively low mileage means that many wear items (suspension bushes, brake pads, clutch plates) may not have been replaced on a mileage basis and could now be approaching the end of their service life purely through calendar ageing. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the braking system. Inspect both front brake discs for signs of cracking, pitting or uneven wear and verify that the discs are of adequate thickness; any thumping, pedal pulsation or a noticeable change in pedal travel can signal residual binding or warped rotors. Examine the front brake pipes for rust, pitting or the presence of grease that may be masking corrosion, and check the condition of the brake fluid – a dark, contaminated fluid should be flushed. The advisory notes on front anti‑roll‑bar pins and suspension arm bushes suggest that the bushings may be close to the point of excess movement; a test‑drive should reveal any clunking or vague handling feel when negotiating bumps or cornering. The light misting of oil from the front shock absorbers points to diminishing damping capacity, so feel for excessive bounce or a soft, mushy ride, especially when applying the brakes. Finally, verify that the rear parking brake and rear service brakes engage firmly, as previous failures recorded little or no effort on the near‑side rear brake and parking brake. Given the car’s age and low annual mileage, a thorough visual inspection of the tyres is essential – look for side‑wall cracking, dry rot and any loss of tread that may have occurred despite limited use. Check the battery for sulphation, measure its cranking voltage and consider a load test, as prolonged storage often leaves a battery weak. Examine the coolant system for any signs of external leaks, cracked hoses or a corroded radiator, and replace the coolant if it appears discoloured or has been sitting for many years. The windscreen and headlamp lenses should be inspected for chips, cracks or film build‑up that can impair visibility. Finally, a comprehensive fluid change – engine oil, brake fluid and gearbox oil – is advisable, as fluids degrade over time even when the vehicle is not driven heavily, and any lingering oil or coolant leaks noted in the MOT records should be traced and repaired before the next test.