2008 Peugeot 308 1.6L Diesel · LS58 HRC

The most recent MOT, dated 6 March 2023, was a pass but carried several advisories – rear registration plate deterioration, a cut on the nearside front tyre, thin rear brake pads, a rear disc that is worn and pitted, and a nearside rear service brake that is binding. Looking back through the last six years the vehicle has alternated between passes and failures, with the 27 September 2021 test failing due to tyre wear and a split CV‑joint boot, and the 2 March 2023 test failing on the same set of advisories that later passed. The pattern shows a generally stable maintenance record; the same issues reappear rather than escalating, suggesting that the owner has been addressing the most serious failures but has not fully resolved the underlying wear items. At 122 067 miles recorded in 2026 the car averages roughly 6 800 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of its age. There are no obvious periods of unusually high mileage that would point to a short‑term high‑stress usage, nor are there long gaps that might indicate prolonged storage. The mileage therefore aligns with the wear signs seen on the tyres, brakes and CV joint, and the vehicle’s components have been subjected to a moderate, steady level of use rather than extreme loading. Prospective buyers should give particular attention to the tyre condition. The nearside front tyre has a cut that, while not yet reaching the ply, could develop into a puncture; the near‑ and off‑side front and rear tyres were previously flagged as being close to the legal tread limit, so fresh tread depth measurements are essential. Look for sidewall cracking, hardening or dry rot, especially given the car’s age, and be prepared for a full tyre set replacement if the tread is below 1.6 mm or the cut has progressed. The rear brake system is already showing thin pads and a pitted disc – expect reduced braking efficiency, possible pedal pulsation and a higher likelihood of squeal; a thorough inspection of the rear caliper for sticking pistons, and measurement of disc thickness, will indicate whether pads and discs need replacing within the next few thousand miles. The nearside rear brake binding noted in the advisories can manifest as a dragging sensation or uneven wear on the rear tyres, so a test‑drive should include a quiet, steady‑speed run to detect any pull to one side or a faint hum from the rear. The split CV‑joint boot on the off‑side front axle should be examined for cracks, grease leakage or dirt ingress; any clicking or vibration when turning at low speed would point to a failing joint that ought to be rebuilt or replaced promptly. Beyond the specific defects, the car’s age warrants a broader set of checks. Verify that the 12 V battery holds a healthy charge and that the terminals are free of corrosion, as batteries over 15 years often lose capacity. Inspect all fluid levels – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – and consider a full service if the last change was more than a year ago, since fluids degrade with time even when the vehicle is not driven heavily. Look for rust on the chassis, suspension bushes and under‑body panels, especially around the wheel arches and rear axle, as prolonged standing can accelerate corrosion. Finally, ensure the service booklet is up to date, confirming that timing belt or chain intervals, spark plug changes and emission system checks have been performed in line with Peugeot’s recommendations, as these items are critical for ongoing reliability on a vehicle of this vintage.