2006 Peugeot 307 2.0L Diesel · MF06 FFP

The most recent DVSA examination on 14 August 2024 resulted in a Pass, which is encouraging at face value, however the overall trend across the recorded history suggests a vehicle with progressive wear rather than one that is improving. Over the last five MOT cycles, three have resulted in advisories alone, one in a fail (August 2023), and another in a pass with three fresh advisories in 2024. The pattern is one of recurring and worsening suspension and steering deterioration, most notably at the offside front lower suspension arm pin or bush, which has been flagged in every test from 2019 through 2023 and was the catalyst for a Major defect in August 2023 when it became excessively worn. Ball joint play has likewise been noted on the nearside front across consecutive tests, and steering rack inner joint play was also recorded in 2020 and 2021. This is consistent with an older front suspension set reaching the end of its service life, with worn bushes and joints progressively loosening rather than being rectified. The recorded mileage of 144,288 miles over a 20-year service life equates to roughly 7,214 miles annually, which is reasonably typical for a vehicle of this age. That said, the MOT history covers only the period from 2019 to 2024, and the mileage accumulation across these visible tests averages around 9,000 to 10,000 miles per year, suggesting somewhat above-average use in recent years rather than the car being left standing. For a vehicle approaching 150,000 miles on Peugeot 307 mechanicals, buyers should expect wear across engine, transmission, suspension, and braking components in proportion to that mileage. The previously noted oil leak from the drive shaft inner seal and the broader oil seepage advisories in 2022 and 2023 are not unusual at this mileage but warrant monitoring as they can develop into more substantial leaks if seals are not replaced. The most pressing inspection priorities should focus on the front suspension and steering geometry. A test drive should be conducted over uneven surfaces, paying close attention to any clonks, knocks, or rattles emanating from the front end, particularly over speed humps and rough tarmac, as these are classic symptoms of worn lower arm bushes and ball joints. Steering should be assessed for vagueness, looseness, or a knocking sensation through the wheel during full-lock manoeuvres, which would indicate worsening rack or track rod wear. On a visual inspection, the nearside rear tyre should be closely examined for any further deterioration of the sidewall cracking noted in August 2024, as perished rubber at this age can fail suddenly regardless of tread. Given the parking brake efficiency failure and individual wheel inoperability in 2023, the handbrake mechanism, rear calipers, and cables should be functionally tested on a hill to confirm both sides are applying and releasing evenly, as binding calipers are common on standing or infrequently adjusted vehicles. Beyond the advisories recorded, age and mileage-appropriate checks remain essential on a 20-year-old vehicle. The coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid are all time-serviced items that degrade regardless of mileage, and confirmation of their replacement history via service records is highly advisable. The 12V battery is well beyond its typical four to five year lifespan and should be load tested, particularly given the additional electrical load on a 307 of this era. Exhaust system integrity, including the flexi section and rear mounting rubbers, should be inspected for corrosion given the underfloor corrosion advisories noted in 2024. Drive shaft CV boots, previously flagged in 2019, 2021, and 2022, must be rechecked, as a split boot rapidly destroys the joint and leads to expensive replacement. Finally, the presence of any oil seepage should be assessed with the vehicle on a ramp, and the engine oil level and condition examined via the dipstick to ensure that consumption is not becoming excessive, as this is a known trait on higher-mileage PSA diesel and petrol units of this generation.