2013 Peugeot 308 1.6L Diesel · LS13 NHJ

The vehicle presented a current MOT pass on 17 June 2026, having initially failed on the preceding day due to a cluster of lighting defects including inoperative front position lamps, headlamp aim and function issues, and a non-functioning rear registration plate lamp. These lighting failures were all rectified quickly and are not inherently structural concerns, but the same test included four advisory items that warrant close attention from any prospective buyer. These advisories comprised both rear brake discs worn and pitted, corrosion on the offside rear suspension component above the spring seat, and worn lower arm rear bushes on both front suspension arms. While individually each of these advisories fell short of immediate failure, the combination of suspension wear and corrosion on a thirteen year old vehicle with high recorded mileage indicates that these items are on a trajectory towards replacement. The longer term MOT history reveals a deteriorating structural picture, most notably the failed test of June 2025 which flagged an excessively corroded nearside rear suspension mounting area reducing structural strength, a weakened seat belt anchorage, and an obviously incorrect headlamp beam image. Although the vehicle subsequently passed in 2026, the fact that corrosion of structural mounting points and seat belt anchorage areas has previously been recorded should be carefully verified during any physical inspection. The recorded mileage of 141,846 miles over a thirteen year period equates to an annual average of roughly 10,911 miles, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and consistent with regular commuter or family use. The MOT record shows no significant mileage gaps between annual tests, confirming that the car has been in continuous active service rather than left standing for prolonged periods, which reduces the likelihood of severe calendar-related degradation such as seized brake calipers, perished fuel lines, or completely deteriorated tyre sidewalls from disuse. Nonetheless, the high absolute mileage means that major drivetrain and suspension components have experienced considerable wear cycles. Routine wear items including clutch, dual mass flywheel if fitted, engine oil seals, and timing chain stretch on the petrol or belt wear on diesel variants must be considered. The average annual figure of around 11,000 miles is also consistent with mostly short journey use, which can promote exhaust corrosion from cold start condensation and accelerated oil dilution in the engine. Given the recurring advisories on both front and rear suspension components and the prior structural corrosion finding on the nearside rear, a prospective buyer should carry out a meticulous physical examination. On a test drive, listen carefully for any clonking or knocking noises from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, which would confirm the worn lower arm rear bushes that have been twice recorded. The rear should be inspected on a lift or ramp, paying particular attention to the offside rear suspension area for any visible bubbling, paint lift, or perforation around the spring seat and outer mounting points, as the advisory from the latest test and the previous failure on the nearside suggest that corrosion is actively progressing. Any steering vagueness, knocking on full lock, or uneven front tyre wear would corroborate the steering rack inner joint play that was flagged in 2024, suggesting replacement of the rack or tie rod ends may soon be necessary. The rear brake discs should be physically measured with a micrometer or assessed for lip and scouring through the wheel spokes, as pitted rear discs have now appeared in three of the last four tests and will likely require machining or replacement at the next service. Beyond the documented advisories, the age and mileage of this 2013 Peugeot 308 warrant standard but thorough checks on time-served components regardless of MOT findings. The tyres should be examined closely for sidewall perishing, cracking, or checking, particularly the nearside rear which was previously flagged for damage, and production date codes should confirm they are not older than five years. The braking system should be checked for binding calipers and seized rear slider mechanisms common to high mileage Peugeots, which often present as uneven pad wear or a pulling sensation under braking. Brake fluid should have been renewed in the last two to three years irrespective of mileage, given the hygroscopic nature of DOT fluid, and the cooling system should be checked for evidence of recent renewal to prevent head gasket or water pump failures. The 12V battery should be load tested as this platform is sensitive to voltage fluctuations which can cause various electrical faults, and the timing belt or chain service interval should be verified against the service book. Finally, the exhaust system should be physically inspected for corrosion at the manifold, downpipe joints, and rear silencer mounting, as the typical short journey usage pattern promotes internal condensation and external rusting throughout the system.