2015 Peugeot 208 1.4L Diesel · CK15 CBX

This Peugeot 208’s most recent MOT test on 2026-03-09 demonstrates a concerning pattern of deferred maintenance rather than genuine roadworthiness. The vehicle failed twice in the same cycle—once for minor but preventable issues like washer liquid and lamp faults, and again for the same structural defects: a severely deteriorated near-side front CV joint boot, pitted front brake discs, and deteriorated track rod ball joint dust covers. While these faults were not deemed critical enough to fail the test outright, their recurrence suggests a history of neglect rather than proactive servicing. The front CV boot failure is particularly critical, as fluid leakage can accelerate joint wear and pose a safety risk. The front brake discs, though not yet seriously weakened, show progressive pitting—a sign of inadequate attention to brake lining replacement intervals. The mileage progression of 134,802 miles today, with the last two tests at 123,072 and 115,544 miles respectively, indicates an average of roughly 12,000 miles per year over the past two cycles. This is high for a vehicle of this age, implying either consistent use or prolonged periods without servicing. Notably, there is a 12-month gap between the 2024 and 2025 tests, during which the vehicle accumulated 7,528 miles—a rate that, if sustained, would have pushed it closer to the 15,000-mile mark annually. The absence of any defects in the 2024 test, followed by repeated failures in 2025 and 2026, suggests that maintenance was either sporadic or reactive rather than scheduled. The lack of intervening service records between tests further raises questions about whether critical components like suspension bushes, coil springs, or binding calipers have been addressed. A prospective buyer should prioritise an immediate inspection of the front suspension, particularly the CV joint boots and track rod ball joints, as these have failed to meet MOT standards repeatedly. The front brake discs, while not yet critically weakened, exhibit pitting that warrants verification of lining thickness and uniformity. Given the high mileage and the pattern of deferred maintenance, the rear suspension and drivetrain should also be scrutinised for signs of wear, including binding calipers or worn rear bushes. Corrosion in wheel arches, subframes, or sills—common in vehicles of this age—should be checked, as should the integrity of the exhaust system for leaks or structural fatigue. The recurring lamp and washer failures indicate basic upkeep has been overlooked; while not mechanically critical, these issues reflect a broader lack of attention to the vehicle’s condition.