2015 Peugeot 308 1.6L Diesel · DF15 PZB

The 2015 Peugeot 308 presents a generally clean roadworthiness history punctuated by a single significant failure in March 2025, followed by a return to full compliance just nine months later. The vehicle has passed every MOT since that incident, including the most recent test on 2026-04-09 which confirmed no active defects, yet the earlier breakdown remains a material factor for a prospective buyer. This pattern indicates the car remained roadworthy throughout most of its ownership period but experienced a marked deterioration in mechanical condition around mid-2025 before stabilising once more. The latest test result provides reassurance regarding current compliance, but the historical disruption warrants particular attention during a pre-purchase inspection. At 50,479 miles for a model introduced in 2015, the vehicle accumulates approximately 4,590 miles annually, a figure considerably lower than typical usage for its age. This usage pattern suggests either very limited driving—perhaps occasional commuting or short trips—or prolonged periods where the car sat idle for extended stretches. The interval between the failed MOT on 2025-03-27 and the subsequent successful test on 2026-04-09 spans nearly six months with no intervening MOT, which aligns with the low mileage trajectory but also implies minimal stress on the drivetrain and suspension systems. While such low utilisation reduces the likelihood of severe wear on many components, it simultaneously limits the opportunity to detect progressive degradation through regular road-testing and monitoring. The most critical mechanical concern identified in the 2025 failure is a fractured offside front coil spring, classified as a major defect. This component governs the vertical movement of the front wheel and contributes significantly to ride comfort and handling stability. When a coil spring fails, the chassis experiences increased flex and unsettled suspension behaviour, often manifesting as pronounced body roll, harshness over bumps, and possible steering vagueness at moderate speeds. On a test drive, the buyer should note any pronounced pitching or bottoming out when travelling over ramps or uneven surfaces, and observe whether the front wheels exhibit unusual play or resistance during cornering. Additionally, the same MOT report flags thin front brake pads as an advisory item, indicating accelerated wear on the braking system. During a test drive, listen for high-pitched squeal or grind as the pads engage, and monitor the braking pedal for any pulsation or spongy feel, as compromised pad thickness can compromise stopping performance even if the hardware itself appears intact. Together, these findings suggest the vehicle requires focused attention on both the suspension architecture and the front brake assembly before taking delivery.