2009 Peugeot 207 1.6L Petrol · FD09 SBV

The most recent DVSA MOT test on this 2009 Peugeot 207 was conducted on 28 April 2026, resulting in a pass with a single advisory noting that the rear axle and suspension components are corroded. Reviewing the broader history, the vehicle has passed its annual assessments in 2020, 2021, 2022, 2025 and 2026, but did suffer two failures during the recorded period. The 2024 failure was largely attributable to emissions and visibility issues, specifically an exhaust lambda sensor reading outside specified limits and both front windscreen wipers and washers failing to operate correctly, which would suggest isolated electrical or sensor faults at that time rather than systemic mechanical deterioration. The 2025 failure was a single major defect regarding an excessively worn offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, which was rectified prior to the re-test five days later. While the vehicle has remained fundamentally roadworthy, the recurrence of similar advisories across multiple years, particularly concerning the front anti-roll bar linkage ball joints, rear brake disc condition and rear tyre perishing, indicates a maintenance trend that is stable but with wear patterns gradually accumulating in known areas rather than actively improving. Against an age of approximately seventeen years and a recorded odometer reading of 80,501 miles, the vehicle averages around 4,735 miles annually, which is notably low for its vintage. The MOT history shows a gap between the November 2020 test and the late 2021 test, and again between late 2022 and mid 2024, suggesting periods of either infrequent use or standing. Low annual mileage combined with extended standing periods carries its own mechanical implications, as prolonged inactivity accelerates moisture-related deterioration in brake calipers, disc surfaces, and underbody components, and places cyclic stress on the 12V battery rather than steady discharge and recharge. Conversely, the shorter intervals between more recent tests suggest the vehicle is being used more regularly now, which is generally beneficial for keeping seals lubricated and brake surfaces clear of corrosion. Given the recurring advisories relating to the front anti-roll bar linkage ball joints, an area that has been flagged in 2021, 2022, 2025 and noted on the failed test of 2025 with a related lower suspension arm ball joint replacement, any prospective test drive should pay particular attention to the front suspension. Listen for clonking or knocking noises when traversing speed humps, uneven road surfaces, or during tight low-speed manoeuvres, and feel for vagueness or shudder through the steering wheel. The rear brake discs have been repeatedly noted as worn, pitted or scored across 2021, 2022 and 2024, which is characteristic of a vehicle that has seen significant standing periods; on a test drive, the buyer should check for brake shudder under firm pedal application and listen for any scraping or grinding from the rear hubs. The rear brake binding advisory from 2025 suggests that the caliper guide pins or slider mechanisms may be seizing, a common low-mileage standing issue, and a thorough inspection should confirm that both rear wheels spin freely by hand when cold and that the handbrake releases cleanly without residual drag. Beyond the recorded advisories, the age and low usage profile warrant several practical physical checks before purchase. The rear tyres have been repeatedly flagged for perishing and cracking since 2024, and even if replacements were subsequently fitted, all four tyres should be inspected closely for sidewall cracking, tread depth, and manufacture date, as rubber degrades with calendar age regardless of mileage. The underbody and rear axle area should be examined for the corrosion flagged in the latest test, ideally with the vehicle raised, paying attention to structural integrity, floor pans, sill integrity and brake pipe condition. Fluid servicing should be verified against time rather than mileage, including confirmation of when the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil were last changed, with brake fluid typically requiring replacement every two years due to its hygroscopic nature. The 12V battery should be load tested, particularly given the 2024 wiper and washer failure which can indicate voltage supply issues, and the exhaust system, including the lambda sensor which previously failed, should be inspected for corrosion or physical damage. Finally, a cold start observation will confirm whether the 2024 noisy engine advisory has progressed into a more serious mechanical concern.