2012 Peugeot RCZ 2.0L Diesel · DN62 FYR

The most recent DVSA examination on 31 October 2025 returned a Pass, though the result was accompanied by one minor defect and three advisories that warrant close attention. Reviewing the trajectory across the available MOT history, the pattern is one of gradual deterioration rather than a stable or improving trend. The 2022 and 2021 tests were returned clean with no advisories, but from 2023 onwards a series of recurring issues has emerged, including front suspension component wear, rear brake disc corrosion, coil spring corrosion, and premature tyre wear on both front and rear axles. The 2024 test produced a PRS failure for inoperative stop lamps and registration plate lamps, indicating some neglect of basic electrical maintenance. Taken collectively, the advisory accumulation suggests that consumable wear items are approaching or reaching the end of their useful life and that the vehicle will soon require targeted mechanical attention. With 136,586 miles recorded over approximately 14 years, the Peugeot RCZ is covering around 9,750 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and class and implies regular rather than standing use. There are no significant gaps in the MOT record, suggesting the car has been in continuous service, and the mileage progression between tests appears consistent. For a high-mileage petrol coupe of this vintage, attention should be paid to the cumulative wear on the clutch, gearbox, turbocharger if fitted, and engine ancillaries, as these components endure proportional strain relative to distance covered rather than calendar age. The recurring advisories concerning the front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint, the front suspension arm ball joint with slight play, and the corroded offside rear coil spring are all indicative of progressive suspension wear typical of a car covering substantial mileage on UK roads. On a test drive, listen for clonks or knocks from the front end when traversing speed bumps or uneven surfaces, and pay particular attention to any vagueness in steering response, tracking irregularities, or uneven tyre wear across the front axle, particularly inner-edge wear as previously recorded. The advisories relating to rear brake disc corrosion on the inner surface and a binding rear service brake suggest the caliper guide pins or rear brake mechanism may be seizing, which can manifest as a dragging sensation, uneven braking effort, or rear brake judder under heavy application. The discs themselves may now require replacement rather than mere cleaning, given the pitted and corroded condition noted in 2024. Beyond the recorded MOT items, a prospective buyer should conduct a thorough physical inspection given the vehicle's age and mileage. Examine all tyres, including the spare, for sidewall cracking and perishing from age, as rubber degrades regardless of tread depth, and verify that all four tyres are of matching specification. Inspect the exhaust system for corrosion, particularly at the mounting points, flex joint, and rear silencer, as Peugeot exhausts of this era are prone to early failure. Check the condition of all visible fluid levels and their respective colours, paying close attention to engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, bearing in mind that brake fluid should ideally be replaced every two years irrespective of mileage due to its hygroscopic nature. Lift the bonnet and inspect coolant hoses, drive belts, and the 12V battery, which on a 14-year-old vehicle is almost certainly due for replacement. Finally, examine the bodywork and underside for any signs of corrosion, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and suspension mounting points, as the coil spring corrosion already recorded may indicate broader structural or chassis corrosion concerns. A pre-purchase inspection by a competent independent specialist would be strongly advisable given the emerging pattern of mechanical wear across the recent MOT history.