2007 Peugeot 207 1.6L Petrol · BL07 PXV

The most recent MOT, carried out on 21 October 2025, was passed but recorded three advisories – a corroded front‑exhaust mounting, a minor oil leak and a repeat of the same exhaust issue noted at the previous test. Over the last six years the vehicle has alternated between passes and failures, with major failures in 2021, 2022 and 2023 largely centred on lighting, parking‑brake performance and front‑suspension dust‑cover integrity. The pattern shows a modest improvement – the last test was a pass – yet the recurrence of the same exhaust‑mounting corrosion and the persistent oil‑leak advisory indicate that underlying wear has not been fully remedied and could re‑appear as a failure if left unattended. At 100,974 mi the car averages roughly 5,300 mi per annum, well below the typical UK usage of 8‑12 000 mi per year for a vehicle of this age. The low annual mileage suggests periods of limited use or extended storage, which can be as detrimental as high mileage because components such as rubber bushings, seals and battery plates can deteriorate from age rather than wear. Prolonged standing also encourages surface rust on chassis members and exhaust brackets, a fact reflected in the repeated front‑exhaust mounting advisories. Conversely, the modest mileage means that wear items such as the clutch, gearbox synchronisers and engine bearings are likely to be in better condition than a high‑mileage counterpart, provided the car has been regularly serviced. When you inspect the car, give particular attention to the front‑exhaust mounting points; look for cracked, flaking or missing metal and feel for excessive play when the engine is revved. Any rattling or metallic clunk at idle may indicate that the mounting is no longer supporting the exhaust securely, which can lead to increased vibration and eventual failure of the exhaust pipe or catalytic converter. The recurring oil‑leak advisory, although classified as non‑excessive, should be traced to its source – a common culprit on the 207 is a leaking valve‑cover gasket or a deteriorated oil‑separator pipe. Check the underside of the engine for fresh oil stains, monitor oil level between fills and be alert for a faint oil film on the exhaust or under the car after a short drive. The near‑side front suspension ball‑joint dust cover has been flagged for ingress of dirt; inspect the ball joint for play by rocking the wheel at the 12 o’clock position and listen for any metallic clunk when the wheel is turned under load. A compromised dust cover can accelerate ball‑joint wear, leading to steering looseness or uneven tyre wear. The tyre condition warrants immediate scrutiny – both front tyres were noted as being close to the legal tread limit and showing edge wear in 2021 and again in 2024. Examine the tread depth across the width of each tyre and look for sidewall cracking, which is common on older, low‑mileage tyres that have been stored for long periods. Verify that the parking brake now meets the required efficiency; a previous dangerous failure suggests possible seized or corroded rear‑drum shoes, so test the handbrake for firm, consistent hold and listen for uneven dragging when the car is stationary. Finally, assess the rear sub‑frame and coil springs for surface rust; while the MOT recorded only superficial corrosion, any pitting or flaking could indicate deeper structural weakening, especially if the vehicle has been parked outdoors for years. A battery test for cranking voltage and a check of all fluid levels – brake, coolant and gearbox – is advisable, as time‑based degradation can occur even with low mileage. Addressing these items before purchase will give you a clearer picture of the car’s remaining service life and any imminent maintenance costs.