2013 Peugeot RCZ 2.0L Diesel · L1 MMJ

Persistent component wear defines the mechanical history of this 2013 Peugeot RCZ, which accumulated four test failures and a recurring set of suspension and steering advisories across its recent evaluations. The vehicle most recently passed an MOT on 2026-06-29 at 42,571 miles, noting persistent issues including a light oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber that has been recorded annually since 2024, alongside newly noted slight deterioration on both front lower suspension arm rear bushes and a nail embedded in the offside rear tyre. While earlier tests between 2021 and 2023 showed clean roadworthiness with unusual notes about emissions reading too low to register, subsequent years introduced structural and electrical failures including incorrect headlamp aim, a non-working nearside stop lamp, a failed dipped beam, and an emissions exceedance that required rectification before a pass was issued. With 42,571 miles recorded across its 13-year lifespan, the vehicle averages approximately 3,275 miles per year, representing a low-usage profile that has remained consistent without any multi-year gaps or extended off-road periods recorded in the official DVSA data. This restricted annual mileage means the car has spent considerable time parked or undertaking short journeys, an operational pattern that correlates with the recurrence of peripheral electrical faults like blown bulbs and headlamp alignment issues, as well as the progressive degradation of rubber components such as the front suspension arm bushes and steering rack inner joints. When evaluating the car on a test drive, the prospective buyer must pay close attention to the steering and front suspension, specifically listening for knocks, clonks, or vagueness when turning the steering wheel from lock to lock, given the recorded play in the steering rack inner joints and the slight deterioration noted on the lower suspension arm rear bushes. The steering wheel should feel centered without excessive free play, and the vehicle must track straight under braking without pulling to either side. Additionally, the offside rear shock absorber showing a light misting of oil should be inspected closely for active weeping or fluid runs, and the suspension at that corner should be checked for bounce or damping efficiency over rough road surfaces. The electrical system and emissions apparatus require careful pre-purchase verification as well, building on the history of lighting failures and exhaust emission spikes. Verify that all exterior lamps, including the headlamps on both dipped and main beams and the stop lamps, operate reliably without intermittent failures. Given the previous major failure for exhaust emissions exceeding manufacturer limits, ensure the engine idles smoothly, reaches operating temperature correctly without triggering management lights, and displays no signs of excessive smoke or hesitation under acceleration, which will confirm the combustion and emission control systems are functioning as intended.