2016 Porsche Panamera 3.0L Diesel · EG06 BAD

Brake and tyre wear are the defining mechanical themes of this Panamera's MOT history, with multiple recorded advisories and one outright failure directly related to these consumable systems. The most recent test on 2026-04-13 was a pass, but it carried advisories for all four brake discs showing wear, a nail in the nearside rear tyre, and an underbody cover that prevented full inspection of lower components. The brake disc observation is the second consecutive advisory on the same area, following a 2025 test that flagged pitted and scored discs all round, indicating a progressive deterioration that will likely require disc and pad replacement within the next service interval. More seriously, in early 2023 the vehicle failed its MOT with two dangerous defects relating to rear tyre tread depth falling below the legal 1.6mm minimum, accompanied by advisories for both front tyres being worn close to the limit. While the most recent test outcome is a pass, the cumulative picture is one of a car that places notable demand on its braking and tyre components, consistent with a heavy, high-performance vehicle. Mileage accumulation appears broadly typical for the vehicle's age, with 80,513 miles recorded across approximately ten years, equating to an annual average of around 8,050 miles. This is unremarkable for a luxury performance saloon of this type, and there are no significant gaps in the testing record that would suggest prolonged periods off the road, which reduces the likelihood of component degradation associated with long-term standing such as seized calipers, deteriorated rubber seals, or stale brake fluid-related issues. The relatively continuous testing history, with tests recorded in 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026, supports a pattern of regular use rather than extended storage. The annual mileage places this Panamera in line with a vehicle that has been used for mixed commuting and longer journeys, which is generally favourable for maintaining drivetrain and suspension condition compared to predominantly short urban trips. For a prospective buyer, the underbody cover advisory noted at the most recent test is a point worth addressing before purchase, as it prevented the tester from fully inspecting components such as the suspension arms, anti-roll bar links, subframe mounting points, and exhaust system for corrosion or damage. It is advisable to request that the cover be removed and a supplementary inspection carried out, ideally on a ramp, to verify the integrity of these hidden areas. Given the recurring brake disc advisories across two consecutive tests, a physical inspection of all four discs for lipping, hot spots, and surface scoring is essential, along with measurement of remaining pad material; the buyer should also be alert to any vibration or judder through the steering wheel or brake pedal under firm application, which would suggest disc runout. With the 2024 failure related to a severely reduced headlamp output, all exterior lighting should be checked for condensation, internal misting, or oxidisation of the lens assemblies, as this can recur. On a test drive, particular attention should be paid to the suspension, listening for any knocking or clonking noises from the front and rear assemblies over uneven surfaces, which on a Panamera of this age could indicate worn control arm bushes, anti-roll bar drop links, or air suspension struts if fitted. The steering should be assessed for any vagueness, pull to one side under braking, or clonking on full lock, all of which can point to worn tie rods, top mounts, or subframe bushes. Given the vehicle's performance specification, the brakes should be tested firmly from higher speeds to confirm straight-line stability and the absence of pedal pulsation, and a cold start should be observed for any unusual smoke, hesitation, or engine misfire consistent with coil pack or injector wear. Finally, the recent tyre advisory regarding a nail suggests an active puncture repair is required, and the remaining tread depths on all four corners should be measured independently, as a Panamera is sensitive to incorrect tyre specification and uneven wear patterns can indicate alignment or suspension geometry faults.