2009 Peugeot 308 1.6L Petrol · FV09 FGG

The most recent DVSA MOT recorded on 24 September 2025 resulted in a failure, with the vehicle being flagged for a slightly damaged or perishing off‑side front tyre and a series of brake discs described as worn, pitted or scored, though not yet deemed unsafe. Earlier in the same year a pass was logged, but the advisory list was identical, indicating the defects were not remedied. Over the past five years the pattern has shifted from occasional isolated advisories to a growing catalogue of tyre perishing and brake disc wear, compounded by a major rear coil‑spring fracture in 2021. This trajectory points to a worsening maintenance record, suggesting that key wear items have been allowed to progress without timely replacement. At 63,691 miles on a 2009 model the average annual mileage works out to roughly 3,750 mi, which is well below the typical UK usage of 7‑10 000 mi per year. Such low utilisation often reflects long periods of inactivity or very light use, which can be as detrimental as high mileage because components age regardless of distance. Prolonged standing accelerates tyre sidewall perishing, rubber hardening and cracking, and can lead to battery sulphation, brake disc corrosion and suspension bushings drying out. Conversely, the modest mileage means that high‑stress wear items such as engine bearings or transmission gears are unlikely to be near the end of their service lives, provided the vehicle has been stored in a dry environment. A prospective buyer should give the tyres a thorough visual and tactile inspection. Look for any visible cracks, dry rot, bulges or loss of tread uniformity on all four wheels, and feel the sidewalls for brittleness; a tyre that is perishing will often feel hard and may produce a faint squeak when rolled. During a short test‑drive, listen for thumping or clunking from the front axle, especially over bumps, which can indicate that the cracked tyre is no longer holding its shape or that the suspension bushes are deteriorating. The brake discs, flagged on every MOT since 2021, are likely approaching the end of their serviceable thickness; check for a deep, irregular scoring pattern, pulsation in the pedal or a high‑pitched squeal under hard braking, all of which signal that replacement on all four wheels will be required soon. Given the vehicle’s age and low mileage, also examine the under‑carriage for any signs of corrosion, particularly around the rear sub‑frame where the fractured coil spring was previously repaired. Verify that the rear suspension components—shock absorbers, bushings and the repaired spring—are free of oil leaks and exhibit no excessive play when the wheels are rocked. Test the 12‑volt battery voltage and check for any fluid leakage from the engine bay; old coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid can degrade over time and should be flushed if they appear discoloured or contain sediment. Finally, request the full service book to confirm regular oil changes and any recorded work on the suspension or braking system, as documented maintenance will be essential to bring the car back to a reliable, road‑worthy condition.