2009 Peugeot 308 1.6L Diesel · KR09 CMK

The mechanical signature of this 2009 Peugeot 308 centres on progressive suspension and brake wear, with the most recent test on 18 June 2026 recording a pass accompanied by advisories on both front and rear brake discs showing pitting and scoring, an offside rear inner tyre worn to near the legal limit, and corrosion to the nearside rear integral body structure. That pass followed just two days after a fail on 16 June 2026 for fractured offside front and offside rear coil springs, classified as Major defects, which by definition presented an immediate risk to roadworthiness. The pattern deepens when reviewing earlier tests: both rear coil springs were flagged as corroded at the 2022 pass, and the 2023 pass carried advisories for front brake disc wear on both sides plus an oil leak. A 2023 failure additionally recorded missing emission control equipment fitted as standard, a defect that would compromise exhaust compliance. The combined picture is one of accumulating wear items, escalating spring degradation culminating in outright fracture, and brake component deterioration that has persisted across multiple test cycles. Mileage accumulation stands at 131,908 miles over approximately seventeen years, yielding an annual rate of roughly 7,759 miles per year, which is broadly in line with typical usage for a vehicle of this age. The recorded test history shows gaps of more than two years between the 2022 and 2023 entries, and a further three-year interval before the 2026 tests, suggesting either periods off the road or interrupted testing. Such intervals are mechanically relevant because prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion of underbody components, brake disc surface degradation through lack of regular use, and hardening of rubber suspension bushes, all of which align with the coil spring corrosion and brake pitting advisories observed here. The mileage figure itself, sustained over a long service life, points to considerable consumption of braking, steering, and drivetrain components. For a prospective buyer, the priority inspection points are the coil springs at all four corners, given the recorded fractures on the offside front and offside rear and prior corrosion advisories on both rear springs. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking over bumps and around low-speed direction changes, and visually inspect the springs for cracks, paint flaking exposing rust, or any visible sagging at the ends. Pay close attention to the front brake discs, which were flagged as pitted on both sides in 2023 and again in 2026; under braking feel for vibration or pulsation through the brake pedal and steering wheel, which suggests disc run-out beyond serviceable limits. The nearside rear inner body structure corrosion advisory should be examined directly for perforation, bubbling under paint, or distortion around load-bearing areas, and a thorough underbody inspection on a ramp is advisable. Additional checks should include verification that the missing emission control equipment identified at the 2023 test has been correctly reinstated, as its absence would have caused an immediate fail and its replacement quality merits confirmation. The oil leak noted in 2023 should be re-evaluated by inspecting the engine block, sump, and oil filter housing for fresh seepage or drips, particularly after the vehicle has been running. Both inner front and rear tyres should be inspected for uneven shoulder wear, which on a 308 commonly points to worn suspension bushes or weakened coil springs. Finally, given the rear brake disc advisory, a physical check of disc thickness against the manufacturer minimum specification is prudent before purchase, and the nearside rear suspension assembly warrants close scrutiny for any movement in bushes or signs that structural corrosion has progressed beyond the advisory threshold recorded.