2009 Peugeot 308 1.6L Diesel · ML59 PYY

The most recent MOT test for this 2009 Peugeot 308 occurred on 2025-12-17, where it passed with a single advisory of an oil leak that was deemed not excessive. While the vehicle has not failed an MOT since 2022, the pattern of recurring advisories and minor failures over the past three years suggests a maintenance trend that requires careful attention rather than being entirely stable. The nearside front drive shaft joint boot deterioration in 2024, the front coil spring fracture in 2022, and the persistent oil leaks indicate underlying wear and potential long-term issues with the suspension and drivetrain components. The ABS fault in 2023, though now resolved, highlights the importance of addressing electrical and hydraulic braking systems promptly to prevent further complications. The vehicle’s history of both major and minor failures underscores that while it remains roadworthy, it has not been consistently well-maintained, and future failures could escalate if not addressed. The recorded mileage of 132,569 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 7,798 miles per year, which is typical for its age and class. Such mileage alone does not necessarily indicate excessive wear, but the combination of consistent usage over a long period—particularly with the vehicle standing for extended periods—can accelerate degradation in components prone to corrosion, such as brake systems and suspension parts. The presence of binding rear brakes and a fractured coil spring in previous MOTs suggests that prolonged idling or infrequent driving may have contributed to wear in these areas. Additionally, the nearside front tyre wear close to legal limits in 2022 and the offside rear tyre cuts indicate that the vehicle may have undergone uneven or aggressive driving conditions, further stressing certain components. While the mileage is not exceptionally high for its age, the wear patterns suggest that the vehicle has faced some operational challenges that warrant a thorough inspection. For a prospective buyer, the most critical areas to inspect during a pre-purchase examination include the suspension system, brakes, and drivetrain components, given the recurring issues identified in the MOT history. The fractured front coil spring and excessively worn nearside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint suggest that the suspension is showing significant signs of fatigue, particularly on the near-side. During a test drive, listen for unusual clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when cornering or over bumps, which may indicate further bush or ball joint wear. The binding rear brakes and the ABS fault history mean that the hydraulic and electronic braking systems should be thoroughly inspected for leaks, corrosion, or binding calipers. Check for uneven brake pad wear, sponginess in pedal feel, or a pulsating sensation while braking, which could signal warped discs or internal brake issues. The oil leaks, particularly around the near-side front joint and drivetrain, should prompt a check of the engine bay for fluid pooling and the condition of the oil filter and seals. Additionally, verify that the near-side front tyre is fully compliant with legal tread depth and inspect for signs of uneven wear or damage that could indicate alignment or suspension misalignment. Beyond the mechanical checks, consider a comprehensive inspection of the vehicle’s structural integrity and fluid condition. Given the vehicle’s age, examine the tyres for sidewall cracking or perishing, which can weaken the rubber and lead to sudden blowouts. The offside rear tyre cuts suggest that the vehicle has been subjected to severe road conditions or improper storage, so ensure all tyres meet the legal minimum tread depth and have no visible damage. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and check the 12V battery’s health by attempting to start the engine and monitoring the charging system. The registration plate advisory in 2022 indicates that the vehicle may have been stored in a damp environment, so check for signs of rust on the chassis or undercarriage, particularly around wheel arches and beneath the rear axle. Finally, since the vehicle has not had a recent service, consider a full fluid top-up—particularly brake fluid, which can degrade over time—and a check of the coolant, transmission, and differential fluids. The last scheduled service should ideally be documented in the service book, so verify that the vehicle has received regular maintenance for oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid servicing. If the service history is incomplete, arrange for a professional inspection to ensure that critical intervals have been met.