2011 Peugeot 308 1.6L Petrol · BF11 RXT

Recurring advisories regarding corrosion on the rear shock absorber casings and a persistent dent to the offside outer sill define the mechanical profile of this Peugeot 308. While the vehicle has maintained a continuous pass record through its most recent test on 19 March 2026, the history shows a long-term pattern of minor structural and component degradation. Specifically, the rear shock absorbers have been flagged for casing corrosion since at least 2019, a trend that has remained constant throughout the recorded testing period. Additionally, the offside outer sill has appeared as a recurring advisory for several years, indicating a consistent area of minor bodywork damage. The vehicle has covered 33,783 miles over approximately 15 years, which equates to an average annual usage of roughly 2,252 miles. This represents a significantly lower mileage accumulation than the typical UK average for a vehicle of this age. Mechanically, such low usage often correlates with the specific types of advisories seen in the MOT history, particularly the repeated observations of tyre cracking and perishing. When a vehicle is driven infrequently, rubber components like tyres and suspension seals are more susceptible to environmental degradation and ozone cracking due to lack of regular movement and heat cycles, rather than tread wear. A prospective buyer should pay close attention to the suspension and steering systems during a test drive. The recurring advisory for corroded rear shock absorber casings, alongside a 2024 advisory regarding a slightly corroded power steering pipe or hose, necessitates a thorough inspection of fluid integrity and component condition. On the road, listen for any knocking or thudding sounds when traversing uneven surfaces or speed bumps, which could indicate that the reported shock absorber corrosion has progressed to internal seal failure or bushing degradation. Furthermore, check for any heavy steering or audible whining from the steering rack, which might suggest the noted power steering hose corrosion is affecting system pressure. The history of tyre cracking and perishing across multiple years suggests that while the tread depth may remain high, the structural integrity of the rubber is a recurring concern. During a test drive, monitor the vehicle for any unusual vibrations through the steering wheel or a tendency for the car to wander, which can be symptoms of aged or degraded tyre sidewalls. The persistent advisory regarding the dented offside outer sill should also be visually inspected to ensure there is no underlying structural compromise or advancing rust in that specific area of the chassis.