2016 Peugeot 308 1.6L Diesel · ML16 RFE

The most recent DVSA examination on 14 July 2025 returned a PASS with no defects or advisories recorded, indicating the vehicle was deemed roadworthy at the time of test. Looking at the broader pattern, the Peugeot has alternated between pass and fail outcomes over the last three years, with failures on 10 July 2024 and 29 June 2023 both followed by passes at the next available attempt. Although no specific defect codes are listed against either failure, this back-and-forth history suggests the vehicle may have required minor remedial work to clear each subsequent test rather than being maintained in a consistently first-class state. For a prospective buyer, it is worth establishing with the seller what work was carried out to secure the recent pass, as the absence of recorded advisories on a ten-year-old high-mileage car is unusual and merits direct confirmation. With 161,437 miles recorded on a 2016 vehicle, the Peugeot 308 has covered approximately 16,144 miles per year, which is well above the national average and points to sustained, heavy use rather than the lighter wear pattern typical of a privately owned family hatchback. This level of annual mileage means the engine, clutch, turbocharger (if fitted), transmission, and drivetrain have all absorbed significant cumulative stress. Brake pads, discs, and suspension components such as coil springs, wishbone bushes, drop links, and anti-roll bar mountings will have worn at an accelerated rate, while the dual-mass flywheel and clutch assembly are approaching or may already have exceeded their expected service life. Given that the MOT history shows continuous high use without any recorded advisories, it is plausible that consumables have simply been replaced as required rather than the vehicle being driven gently, and a thorough inspection is therefore essential. Because the MOT record is notably clean of recorded advisories despite the car's age and mileage, a physical inspection becomes especially important. Begin by examining all four tyres for tread depth, but pay particular attention to sidewall perishing and cracking, which is common on ten-year-old rubber regardless of remaining tread, and check that matching sizes and recommended load and speed ratings are fitted. Inspect the brake discs for an obvious lip at the outer edge, which indicates wear approaching the minimum thickness, and verify that the calipers are releasing cleanly without any binding that would cause uneven pad wear or pulling under braking. Look underneath for any signs of fluid seepage from the engine sump, power steering rack, or front suspension components, and check the condition of the exhaust system for corrosion at the mounting brackets and flexi-joints, areas prone to failure on older Peugeots. Equally important are the time-sensitive items that an MOT does not cover. The 12V battery health should be tested, as a ten-year-old original unit is well beyond its typical service life and prone to cold-weather failure. Inspect the level and condition of the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant, and establish when the brake fluid and coolant were last replaced, as both are hygroscopic and degrade on a calendar basis irrespective of mileage. On the test drive, listen for any clonks from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, which often reveals worn lower wishbone bushes or top mount deterioration, and monitor for clutch slip during high-load acceleration, juddering on take-off, or any hesitation that could point towards dual-mass flywheel wear. Finally, request evidence of the cambelt or timing belt replacement history, as on a 2016 308 this is a critical service item, and verify that the service book contains consistent stamps or that supporting invoices are available to confirm the recorded high mileage has been accompanied by proper mechanical upkeep.