2011 Peugeot 508 2.0L Diesel · LM61 HTE

A pattern of long-term roadworthiness is evident in this Peugeot 508, characterized by several consecutive years of clean passes without defects following a period of minor issues in 2020 and 2021. The most recent test on 24 January 2026 resulted in a pass, though it introduced the first advisory in several years regarding oil misting on the offside rear shock absorber. While the vehicle has moved past previous failures involving a fractured offside front coil spring and registration plate lamp issues, the emergence of this new advisory suggests the beginning of wear in the suspension damping components. The vehicle has covered 122,353 miles over its approximately 15-year lifespan, which equates to an average annual accumulation of roughly 8,157 miles. This usage profile is typical for a vehicle of this age and suggests a consistent level of operation rather than extreme high-mileage motorway use or long periods of stationary storage. From a mechanical standpoint, this steady mileage rate implies that while wear on consumables such as brakes, tyres, and suspension bushes should be expected, the vehicle has not been subjected to the accelerated degradation often associated with much higher annual mileages. Prospective buyers should pay close attention to the offside rear suspension during a test drive to monitor the impact of the reported oil misting on the shock absorber. While light misting is not an immediate failure, it can lead to a loss of damping efficiency over time. Listen for any rhythmic thumping, knocking, or clunking sounds when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps, as these can indicate that the internal seals of the shock absorber are failing or that the component is nearing the end of its functional life. Additionally, ensure the vehicle maintains a straight line and does not exhibit any unexpected pulling to one side, which could indicate uneven damping or related suspension geometry issues. Given the historical failure of a front coil spring in 2021, a thorough visual inspection of the entire suspension assembly is advisable to ensure no other springs show signs of corrosion or fatigue. Although the 2020 advisory regarding a broken nearside front brake wear indicator wire was resolved, it is prudent to listen for any high-pitched squealing during braking, which could indicate that brake pad wear is approaching a critical level. A test drive should also include several firm braking applications to check for any pedal judder or vibration, ensuring the brake discs and calipers are performing consistently across all corners of the vehicle.