2016 Peugeot 208 1.2L Petrol · ET65 TCY

A pattern of recurring tyre degradation has emerged in the most recent testing cycles, despite the vehicle achieving a clean pass on 23 January 2026. While the 2026 result shows no defects, the previous two years of inspections have consistently flagged perishing or cracking tyre sidewalls and tread areas as advisories. This trend of rubber degradation, first noted in January 2024 and continuing through the January 2025 test, suggests that the tyres are reaching the end of their functional lifespan due to age rather than excessive tread wear. The vehicle has covered 27,866 miles over its ten-year lifespan, which equates to an average annual accumulation of approximately 2,787 miles. This represents a significantly lower-than-average usage profile for a 2016 model. Mechanically, such low mileage can often correlate with the tyre perishing noted in the MOT history, as vehicles that spend extended periods stationary are more susceptible to sidewall cracking and ozone degradation. While drivetrain and engine components may show less wear from distance, the lack of regular movement can impact the condition of rubber seals and the structural integrity of tyre compounds. During a test drive, particular attention should be paid to the condition of all four tyres, specifically looking for any visible cracking in the sidewall grooves or between the tread blocks. Although the 2026 test was clear, the history of advisories for the nearside front, nearside rear, and offside rear tyres indicates a need for close visual inspection. If the tyres are indeed perishing, you may notice a subtle change in road noise or a slight vibration at motorway speeds, though the primary concern remains the potential for structural failure of the rubber. The inspection history also shows two instances of registration plate lamp failures in 2023 and 2024, both of which were rectified to achieve a pass. While these are minor electrical issues, they confirm that basic exterior lighting was a point of failure in previous years. Given the low mileage and the specific advisories regarding tyre condition, ensure that the vehicle is not just visually clean, but that the rubber components are being replaced based on age rather than just remaining tread depth.