2016 Peugeot Expert 2.0L Diesel · LS66 EDV

A persistent and unresolved CV joint boot issue dominates the mechanical history of this 2016 Peugeot Expert, having been recorded as severely deteriorated on the nearside front outer drive shaft at every single MOT since at least 2023. The most recent test on 13 August 2026 returned a pass, but the boot deterioration remains flagged as a Minor defect, indicating the same component has been left to deteriorate for at least three consecutive years. The vehicle also suffered a failure on 7 August 2025 due to a major defect on the upper steering column universal joint, showing excessive wear or play, alongside an inoperative nearside rear stop lamp. While the Expert passed the subsequent test on 21 August 2025, this failure represents a notable safety concern that warrants close inspection. Tyre perishing advisories have also been a recurring theme on both rear tyres across multiple tests, suggesting either age-related rubber degradation or prolonged use of ageing tyres. Recorded mileage stands at 78,342 miles across approximately ten years, averaging around 7,800 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a light commercial vehicle of this age. There are no significant gaps in the testing history, with annual tests consistently carried out, suggesting the vehicle has remained in regular operational use rather than being laid up for extended periods. This consistent usage pattern is mechanically favourable as it reduces the likelihood of seized brakes, deteriorated seals, and drained fluids associated with long-term storage, though it does mean the standard wear items on suspension and drivetrain will have accumulated normal service fatigue. The recurring CV boot defect on the nearside front is the most pressing area for a prospective buyer to examine closely. A severely deteriorated boot allows grease to escape and contaminants to enter the joint, eventually leading to failure and potential loss of drive. During a test drive, listen for any clicking or knocking noises from the front when turning at full lock, either stationary or at low speed, and check for any black grease splatter on the underside of the wheel arch or on the drive shaft itself. Given the failure of the steering column universal joint, the steering should be evaluated carefully for any notchiness, clunking, or excessive free play when turned lock to lock, both with the engine running and at standstill. The recurring rear tyre perishing advisories should prompt a close visual inspection of the sidewalls for any cracks, bulges, or exposed cords, and a test drive on a motorway at sustained speed will reveal any vibrations or tracking issues that may result from degraded rubber. The 2024 advisory noting a deteriorated ball joint dust cover on the offside front suspension arm is also worth scrutinising; with the cover compromised, water and dirt ingress could have accelerated wear on the joint itself, so listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension when traversing speed bumps or uneven road surfaces. Finally, a thorough underbody inspection is advisable given the Expert's commercial heritage, checking for any corrosion on brake lines, the subframe, and suspension components that might not have been captured in routine MOT checks.