2013 Peugeot RCZ 1.6L Petrol · D28 MCG

A recurring pattern of suspension and braking defects punctuated by multiple test failures characterises the MOT history of this Peugeot RCZ, reflecting a vehicle that has required significant mechanical intervention to maintain roadworthiness. Following a failure in November 2025 due to a severely weakened nearside front Macpherson strut mounting, a split offside constant velocity boot, rear brake imbalance, and a lagging offside service brake, the car successfully passed a retest on December 4, 2025. This recent failure event demonstrates a cluster of major mechanical faults arising simultaneously, interrupting periods of cleaner test outcomes in 2024 and 2022. The odometer reading of 44,444 miles accumulated over approximately 13 years yields an average of roughly 3,419 miles annually, establishing a low-usage profile for its age. This sparse mileage accumulation means the vehicle has spent considerable time parked or journeying only short distances, which often concentrates mechanical wear onto specific rubber components, suspension linkages, and braking friction surfaces through disuse rather than high-mileage fatigue. When conducting a test drive, prospective buyers must pay strict attention to the front suspension and steering assembly, specifically listening for clunks, knocks, or metallic crunches over speed humps and rough tarmac to ensure the repaired nearside front Macpherson strut mounting and its surrounding turret are sound. The braking system requires rigorous physical checks as well; test the footbrake response for any pulling, hesitation, or delayed engagement that would indicate lingering effects of the previously flagged offside service brake lag and rear brake imbalance, and visually inspect the rear brake discs for the pitting and scoring noted on the recent defect sheets. Furthermore, inspect the inner and outer constant velocity boots on both the nearside and offside drive shafts, keeping in mind that split gaiters have appeared on previous test records for both sides of the vehicle, which can lead to joint contamination and premature failure if grease leakage goes unnoticed. Check the condition of the tyres for any signs of perishing or sidewall cracking, echoing the advisories logged during the 2023 testing cycle, and verify that all electrical ancillaries and lighting operate correctly to avoid minor faults like the inoperative registration plate lamp recorded in 2022.