2009 Peugeot 308 1.4L Petrol · ML59 VRD

The most recent DVSA examination on 10 October 2025 resulted in a Pass, with the only recorded item being an advisory relating to a child seat fitted on the nearside rear that prevented full inspection of the adult seat belt. This is a non-mechanical observation and carries no roadworthiness concern. Evaluating the broader trend across the last four recorded tests, the pattern is mixed rather than clearly stable, improving, or worsening. Two clean passes were achieved in late 2022 and late 2023, followed by a fail on 4 December 2023 citing major defects on both front and rear brake balance and a split nearside front constant velocity joint boot, before a subsequent pass later that same month and another pass in October 2025. The fact that the brake imbalance and CV boot failure were resolved and have not recurred in subsequent tests suggests remedial work was carried out competently, though the underlying causes warrant verification during any pre-purchase inspection. Recorded mileage of 39,362 miles on a 2009 vehicle represents exceptionally low usage, equating to roughly 2,315 miles annually over seventeen years. While low mileage generally preserves major drivetrain components, it also introduces well-documented age-related risks. Vehicles that cover few miles frequently suffer from prolonged standing periods, which can lead to brake disc corrosion, seized or binding calipers, perished rubber components including drive shaft boots as already evidenced in the history, and deterioration of lubricants and coolants through calendar ageing rather than mileage accumulation. The annual accumulation appears consistent, with no large gaps or sudden surges, which points to either steady light use or significant periods of inactivity, both of which merit careful physical inspection. Given the front brake imbalance that was previously recorded, particular attention should be paid to the condition of the front brake discs and pads, checking for uneven wear, lipping on the disc edges, and ensuring the caliper sliding pins and guide surfaces move freely without binding. Uneven braking effort, pulling to one side under firm pedal application, or a spongy pedal would indicate further deterioration. The previously noted split offside front CV boot must be inspected closely for any signs of fresh grease loss, perished rubber, or evidence of recent replacement with a quality component. On a test drive, listen for clicking or knocking from the front suspension under full steering lock, particularly on tight manoeuvres, which would indicate worn CV joints rather than simply a deteriorated boot. For a vehicle of this age and low mileage, additional checks beyond the MOT record are essential. Tyre sidewalls should be examined for cracking or perishing from age, consistent with the advisory recorded in October 2024, and all four tyres should ideally be no older than five or six years regardless of tread depth, as the date code on the sidewall will dictate. The 12V battery should be load tested, as batteries on lightly used vehicles frequently fail due to chronic undercharging. Brake fluid should be assumed due for renewal owing to its hygroscopic properties and the passage of time, and the coolant, antifreeze strength, and condition of the auxiliary drive belt should be assessed. Verify a comprehensive service history including cambelt replacement intervals appropriate to the diesel or petrol engine fitted, as neglect of the timing belt on a seventeen year old vehicle could result in catastrophic engine damage. Finally, examine the underside and suspension components for standing corrosion, surface rust on brake lines, perished bushes, and weakened coil springs, all of which are common on low-mileage vehicles that have spent long periods parked.