2010 Peugeot 207 1.6L Diesel · LR10 RZX

The most recent MOT inspection on 18 April 2026 resulted in a pass, but the vehicle's maintenance history reveals a pattern of recurring suspension and braking issues that suggest a reactive rather than proactive approach to upkeep. While the vehicle has successfully passed its last two tests, the transition from the April 2026 failure to a pass required addressing significant safety defects, including a fractured offside rear coil spring and worn anti-roll bar linkages. The presence of ongoing advisories regarding worn anti-roll bar bushes and a tyre nearing the legal limit indicates that while the vehicle is currently roadworthy, several components are approaching the end of their serviceable life and will require imminent attention. With approximately 90,920 miles covered over 16 years, this Peugeot 207 has averaged roughly 5,682 miles per year. This is considered low annual mileage for a vehicle of this age, which can be a double-edged sword. While lower mileage generally implies less wear on the engine and drivetrain, the low usage rate often correlates with longer periods of standing. This pattern is supported by the MOT history, which shows recurring advisories for pitted and scored brake discs and binding calipers. Such issues are common in vehicles that are not driven frequently, as moisture can lead to surface corrosion on the discs and brake components can seize due to inactivity. During your test drive, you must pay close attention to the suspension and steering response. The recurring advisories for anti-roll bar ball joints and bushes suggest that the front end may exhibit knocking or clunking noises when driving over uneven surfaces or speed bumps. You should also check for any pulling to one side or imprecise steering feel. Given the history of binding brakes and pitted discs, listen for any scraping sounds or feel for a pulsating sensation through the brake pedal, which could indicate warped or heavily corroded discs. Furthermore, verify that the offside rear tyre is replaced soon, as a depth of 2mm leaves very little margin for safety in wet conditions. Beyond the recorded mechanical defects, the low-mileage profile necessitates a thorough physical inspection of age-related degradation. Examine the sidewalls of all tyres for signs of perishing, cracking, or dry rot, which can occur even if the tread depth remains sufficient. Check the engine bay for signs of fluid leaks or perished rubber hoses, as rubber components can degrade from age rather than mileage. It is also advisable to verify the service history to ensure that oil and coolant changes have been performed on a calendar basis rather than strictly by mileage, as time-based fluid degradation is a significant risk for vehicles with low annual usage. Finally, ensure the battery is healthy, as long periods of standing can lead to sulphation and reduced cranking power.