2008 Peugeot Motorhome 2.2L Diesel · CU58 ACX

The most recent MOT test dated 12 June 2026 resulted initially in a failure due to several major defects, including an offside headlamp with aim set too low, misaligned offside windscreen washer jets failing to provide adequate fluid to the screen, and a particularly concerning offside rear service brake reported as grabbing severely. Despite these failures, the same date records a subsequent pass alongside a minor defect regarding the central stop lamp, which still shows a partially non-functioning multiple light source, and an advisory noting a minor exhaust gas leak from the silencer. Evaluating the broader trend across the documented history, the maintenance profile appears to be stable but warrants careful attention, as this is the first recorded instance of major brake, headlamp, and washer jet issues in the available records. The persistence of the exhaust advisory across both the failure and pass entries on the same date suggests an ongoing issue that has not yet been rectified, while the 2025 advisory concerning an offside front lower suspension arm pin or bush shows a recurring wear pattern that the tester has monitored across consecutive tests. With the vehicle being approximately eighteen years old and showing 55,544 recorded miles, the average annual mileage equates to roughly 3,086 miles per year, which is exceptionally low for a motorhome of this vintage and significantly below the typical usage pattern for such vehicles. This low annual figure strongly suggests extended periods of standing or storage between uses, which carries distinct mechanical implications for a prospective buyer. Long-standing vehicles are particularly susceptible to brake disc corrosion and seizure, binding calipers due to pitted pistons, oxidation of the exhaust system, deterioration of rubber components such as suspension bushes and coolant hoses, and premature failure of the 12V battery due to repeated partial discharge cycles. Additionally, motorhomes of this age may have accumulated hidden mileage on the chassis prior to conversion, and the recorded mileage should be cross-referenced against service documentation to confirm authenticity. It is also worth noting that even light annual use does not prevent calendar-based degradation of critical fluids including engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and the habitation area systems. Given the documented history of suspension component wear and the recent brake seizure issue, a thorough physical inspection should commence with the offside front lower suspension arm pin or bush highlighted in the 2025 advisory. A test drive should focus on detecting any clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over uneven surfaces, vagueness in steering response, or uneven tyre wear patterns which would indicate advancing bush deterioration. The offside rear service brake that was reported as grabbing severely requires immediate professional inspection, as brake grab can result from seized caliper slide pins, contaminated brake pads, or a malfunctioning hydraulic component, and any recurrence of pulling to one side under braking or juddering through the pedal would confirm an unresolved issue. When stationary, the wheels should be rocked to detect free play, and a visual inspection of the rear brake caliper area for corrosion or sticking should be undertaken. The exhaust advisory should prompt a physical examination of the silencer and rear box for visible corrosion holes, paying particular attention to any ticking noises on startup that intensify with engine warm-up. Beyond the recorded defects, the age and low-mileage profile of this motorhome necessitates a comprehensive inspection of components vulnerable to time-related degradation rather than wear. All tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing, cracking, and checking, as rubber compounds harden significantly after seven to ten years regardless of tread depth, and the age coding on the sidewall should be checked against the current date. The 12V battery should be load tested, as low-mileage vehicles frequently suffer from sulphation due to chronic undercharging, and any habitation or leisure batteries should be similarly assessed. Brake discs should be inspected for surface rust and lipping, and the calipers should be exercised to ensure pistons are not seized from standing. Fluid reservoirs should be checked for condition and age, with brake fluid being hygroscopic and requiring replacement every two to three years, while coolant and engine oil should be assessed for degradation. Finally, the habitation area plumbing, seals, and electrical systems should be evaluated for water ingress and damp, and the service book should be verified for evidence of regular annual habitation servicing including gas safety checks and damp surveys, as these are critical for motorhome longevity and safety.