2016 Peugeot Expert 1.6L Diesel · FN16 UAL

The vehicle passed its most recent MOT on 29 April 2026, although the same date also records a fail that was rectified before the pass certificate was issued. The underlying cause was a nearside headlamp not functioning on dipped beam, paired with an advisory noting that the service brake was binding but not excessively on both rear wheels. Looking at the broader history, the maintenance trend is broadly stable but with recurring concerns around the front suspension and steering, and repeated lighting faults. The 2023 test produced three majors covering the offside front headlamp, a worn Macpherson strut top mount bearing, and an excessively worn offside front suspension arm ball joint. The 2022 test similarly flagged a missing nearside front steering rack gaiter and another seized Macpherson strut top mount bearing on the offside. Despite these failures, the 2024 and 2025 tests were clean aside from tyre advisories, suggesting the suspension and steering components were replaced and have since held up. The pattern does, however, indicate that the front end of this Expert is worth scrutinising carefully before purchase. With recorded mileage of 24,626 miles over approximately ten years, annual usage is around 2,463 miles, which is very low for a commercial vehicle of this type. Such light use suggests either short delivery cycles, light duty around a site, or extended standing between uses. Mechanically, this has clear consequences. Brake discs and calipers are prone to corrosion and seizing from lack of regular operation, which ties directly into the 2026 advisory noting binding at both rear calipers. Tyres fitted to a low-mileage vehicle often perish from age long before they wear down through use, and this is reflected in the recurring advisories from 2023 onwards regarding cracking on sidewalls and perished rubber. Standing use also accelerates degradation of brake fluid through moisture absorption, degrades diesel fuel quality if the tank has sat for long periods, drains the 12V battery through repeated shallow cycles, and can allow oil seals and gaskets to dry and weep once the vehicle is returned to regular use. A prospective buyer should begin with a thorough physical inspection rather than relying on a short drive. Check all four tyres carefully for sidewall cracking, perishing, and any uneven wear patterns, particularly on the inside edges which would indicate worn suspension bushes or top mount bearings returning. Inspect the front suspension thoroughly by hand, looking for play in the MacPherson strut top mounts, condition of the strut bearings, and any free movement in the suspension arm ball joints, as these have failed on multiple occasions in the MOT history. Examine the steering rack gaiters on both sides for splits or perished sections, as a replacement was required in 2022. Look at the headlamp units and check both dipped beam filaments operate correctly, and verify that headlamp alignment is within tolerance. Inspect the rear brakes by hand for free rotation of the discs and confirm the caliper sliders are retracting freely, addressing the 2026 advisory. On a test drive, listen for any clonks, knocks, or creaks from the front suspension over speed bumps, potholes, and uneven surfaces, which would indicate worn top mounts, bushes, or anti-roll bar links. Pay attention to steering for any vagueness, knocking through the rack, or uneven tyre wear that might suggest the gaiter replacement was incomplete. Test the brakes firmly from speed and feel for any pull to one side, shudder through the pedal, or binding sensation that would confirm the rear caliper issue persists. Beyond the recorded defects, confirm a full service history with timely replacement of brake fluid, coolant, and timing belt or cambelt if applicable to the diesel variant, as these degrade with calendar age regardless of mileage. Verify battery health with a voltage test, check the condition of all coolant and oil seals for any seepage after standing, and consider a compression test or diagnostic read of any stored fault codes. Finally, confirm that the advisories on tyre perishing and rear brake binding were fully resolved, as the current advisory indicates the rear calipers may still require cleaning or refurbishment.