2009 Peugeot 308 1.6L Petrol · BN09 USJ

A pattern of corrosion‑related suspension wear and a split constant‑velocity (CV) joint boot dominate the vehicle’s MOT record, with the 2023‑02‑08 test still flagging front brake disc surface condition, corroded front coil springs and worn inner suspension arm bushes, while a failure just a day earlier recorded a split off‑side front outer drive‑shaft boot. Earlier years added major failures for rear outer‑sill corrosion, compromised seat‑belt anchorage, a faulty wiper, excessive play in the off‑side front track‑rod end and an out‑of‑spec Lambda reading, indicating that structural and drivetrain integrity have been recurring concerns rather than isolated incidents. At 89,294 mi spread over roughly 17 years the average annual accumulation is about 5,250 mi, well below the typical UK usage rate for a family hatchback. The relatively low mileage suggests the car has not been subjected to high‑stress mileage‑related wear, yet the repeated corrosion advisories imply periods of limited use or storage that have allowed rust to develop on suspension components and the outer sill. The MOT history shows no large gaps in testing, with annual checks each February, so the mileage figures are likely reliable and the wear observed is more a function of environmental exposure than high‑kilometre operation. Prospective buyers should inspect the front coil springs for any signs of surface rust or cracking and verify that the springs are still securely seated; any audible creaking or a soft feel when compressing the front suspension could indicate loss of stiffness. The split CV joint boot on the off‑side front drive‑shaft should be examined for grease leakage, dirt ingress or clicking noises when accelerating or turning, as a compromised boot can lead to joint failure. The inner suspension arm pins and bushes flagged as worn should be checked for excessive play or knocking over bumps, and the rear outer‑sill corrosion noted in 2022 warrants a visual inspection for rust perforation that could affect structural rigidity. Brake system condition also warrants attention: the front brake disc was recorded as pitted and scored, and the pads were noted as thin in 2022, so the buyer should test for pedal pulsation, uneven braking feel or a high‑pitched squeal that may indicate disc surface degradation. The off‑side front track‑rod end previously failed with excessive play; a steering feel test for looseness or a clunk when steering at low speed will reveal whether the joint has been repaired or remains problematic. Finally, verify that the windscreen wipers clear effectively and that the seat‑belt anchorage points feel solid under load, as the MOT flagged major deficiencies in these areas that could affect safety compliance.