2006 Peugeot Boxer 2.8L Diesel · ML06 SAL

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 7 July 2026 resulted in a Pass, accompanied by two advisories concerning the front brake discs and the nearside front wheel bearing. The 2025 test also passed but carried a similar nearside front wheel bearing advisory, along with several minor advisories relating to indicator discolouration, a registration plate lamp issue, and notably exposed wiring near the offside rear wheel that was temporarily cable-tied. Both the 2024 and 2023 tests were completely clean with no advisories whatsoever. Taken collectively, the trend across the last four examinations indicates a broadly stable maintenance profile rather than a deteriorating one, although the recurrence of the wheel bearing advisory and the brake disc note in 2026 do suggest that some front suspension and braking components are beginning to reach a point where closer attention will be required going forward. With 58,703 recorded miles accumulated over a twenty-year service life, this Peugeot Boxer has averaged only around 2,935 miles per year, which is exceptionally low for a commercial vehicle of this type. Such modest annual mileage is highly suggestive of long periods of standing or intermittent, light use rather than regular daily operation. While low mileage reduces wear on major drivetrain components, it carries its own set of age-related risks, particularly with regard to corrosion of brake discs, seizing of caliper slide pins, degradation of rubber components through lack of use, and the natural calendar-based deterioration of fluids, coolants and electrical systems. The combination of low mileage and twenty years of service means a thorough physical inspection is arguably more important than a purely mileage-based appraisal. Given the advisories recorded, a prospective buyer should pay particular attention to the front braking system and front suspension during any inspection. The front brake discs should be examined for lipping, uneven wear, surface pitting and any signs of corrosion between the disc and hub face, and the calipers should be checked to confirm they are releasing cleanly without binding, as seized calipers are common on vehicles that spend extended periods stationary. The nearside front wheel bearing advisory has now appeared in two consecutive tests, which warrants a careful check for any play when the wheel is rocked by hand, and on a test drive the buyer should listen for a humming or droning noise that changes with vehicle speed, particularly during cornering, which would indicate bearing wear progressing. The exposed wiring near the offside rear wheel noted in 2025 should be located and properly inspected to confirm it has been correctly repaired rather than left cable-tied, as trailer and ABS wiring in this area is vulnerable to damage and corrosion on commercial vehicles. Beyond the items flagged on the MOT record, the age and low usage profile of this Boxer demand several additional age-appropriate checks before purchase. Tyres should be examined closely for sidewall cracking and perishing, which occurs regardless of tread wear and is particularly common on vehicles of this age, even with low mileage. The 12 volt battery should be load tested, as batteries lasting beyond six or seven years are rare and a failing battery is a frequent cause of starting problems on lightly used commercials. Brake fluid, coolant and power steering fluid should be assessed in terms of their service dates rather than just their condition, since these are time-served items that degrade chemically with age, and a full service history with documented fluid changes would add significant reassurance. Finally, the underside of the vehicle, particularly the suspension bushes, coil springs, anti-roll bar links and any structural areas, should be checked for surface corrosion, as a twenty year old commercial platform is inherently susceptible to rust even with careful storage, and any signs of binding, knocking from the front end over uneven surfaces, or uneven tyre wear would confirm the advisories are progressing toward more serious defects.