2012 Peugeot 508 1.6L Diesel · LS62 WDF

The most recent MOT, carried out on 23 September 2025, was passed with no recorded defects, but the preceding test on 22 September 2025 recorded a number of major failures – insufficient washer fluid, a nearside dipped‑beam headlamp out, an off‑side rear seat‑belt buckle fault, and two dangerous tyre conditions (exposed ply on the off‑side front tyre and tread below the legal limit on the nearside front). Earlier years show a mixed picture: a pass in 2024 was accompanied by advisories for a rear tyre nail and slight play in the lower anti‑roll bar ball joint, while 2022 recorded a major failure for a fractured off‑side front coil spring and several brake‑disc advisories. The pattern indicates a gradual decline in component condition, with recurring suspension and tyre concerns, rather than a stable or improving maintenance trend. At 158 325 miles the car averages roughly 11 300 miles per year over its 14‑year life – a usage rate that sits squarely within the normal range for a family saloon. There are no obvious mileage gaps in the MOT record, suggesting the vehicle has been driven fairly consistently rather than sitting idle for long periods. The mileage level means that wear items such as suspension bushings, engine mounts, brake discs and tyre tread will be approaching the end of their service lives, and any components that have already shown failure (for example the fractured coil spring) are likely to be close to the end of their design life. A prospective buyer should give the suspension a thorough inspection. Verify that the off‑side front coil spring has been replaced and that the lower anti‑roll bar ball joint on the off‑side rear is free of excess play; any clunking or vague steering feel on bumpy roads would point to lingering wear. Examine all four tyres for tread depth, sidewall integrity and the presence of the reported nail in the nearside rear; the front tyres that previously failed for tread and exposed ply should be replaced if the current tread is below 1.6 mm or shows uneven wear. Test all exterior lighting – nearside dipped‑beam headlamp, off‑side front position lamp, and both registration plate lamps – to ensure they illuminate correctly, and operate the rear seat‑belt buckle to confirm it locks securely. During a test drive listen for any squeaks or rattles from the front suspension, monitor for brake shudder or pulsation which would indicate the pitted brake discs are approaching the point of needing resurfacing or replacement, and feel for any pull or vibration that could betray tyre or wheel imbalance. Given the car’s age, additional time‑based checks are prudent. Inspect the 12‑volt battery for signs of sulphation or reduced cranking power, especially if it has been in service for more than three years. Look for any corrosion on the chassis, particularly around the wheel arches and under the front subframe, which can be exacerbated by standing periods. Verify that the coolant, brake fluid and engine oil have been changed at the recommended intervals – fluid colour should be clear to amber, not dark or milky. Finally, request a full service book to confirm that major items such as the timing belt (or chain, depending on the engine variant) and the suspension components have been serviced in line with Peugeot’s schedule, as missed service can accelerate wear on the very parts that have already shown defects.