2008 Peugeot 308 1.6L Diesel · MM08 MLF

The most recent MOT, dated 19 November 2025, was recorded as a Pass but carried several advisories, notably a discoloured nearside front direction indicator and a nearside front tyre close to the legal tread limit. Over the past five years the vehicle has shown a pattern of recurring wear‑related advisories and occasional failures, with the 2025 test highlighting a major fault – an excessively worn nearside front lower suspension arm ball‑joint – and a dangerous defect – exposed ply on the off‑side front tyre. Earlier tests in 2024 and 2023 also recorded failures for lighting faults and a minor exhaust leak, while the same periods repeatedly flagged tyre wear, coil‑spring corrosion and brake‑disc scoring. This suggests a maintenance trend that is not improving; wear items are being noted but not consistently rectified, leading to a gradual deterioration of the vehicle’s roadworthiness. At 154,165 miles the car averages roughly 8,500 miles per year, which is typical for a vehicle of its age. The mileage does not indicate any prolonged periods of inactivity that might have accelerated age‑related degradation, but the cumulative distance is sufficient to have consumed most wear‑items such as tyres, brake pads and discs, suspension bushings and engine fluids. The combination of moderate annual use and the high total mileage means that consumables are likely approaching the end of their service life, and any components that have not been replaced in line with mileage‑based intervals may now be close to failure. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the front suspension and steering assembly. The ball‑joint on the nearside lower arm was recorded as excessively worn in 2025; check for play in the steering wheel, clunking noises when turning over bumps, and uneven tyre wear that could indicate misalignment. Inspect all four tyres for tread depth, sidewall cracking and any signs of separation, as the MOT record shows multiple tyres at or below the legal limit; replacement of the entire set is advisable rather than mixing new and worn tyres. Examine the brake system closely – the front discs were noted as pitted and the rear pads as thin, so feel for pedal pulsation, squeal or shudder under braking and verify disc thickness and pad wear visually. The minor exhaust leak reported in 2023 should be located and repaired to prevent fumes entering the cabin and to maintain emissions compliance. Verify that all lighting functions, especially the off‑side headlamp and both registration plate lamps, operate correctly, as these were flagged as failures in 2024. Beyond the specific MOT items, conduct a comprehensive age‑related inspection. Look for corrosion on the coil springs and any rust on suspension mounting points, especially around the rear coil‑spring area that has been flagged as corroded. Check the windscreen for chips or cracks that could worsen, and assess the 12 V battery for terminal corrosion and capacity, as a vehicle of this age often suffers from reduced charge retention. Confirm that the service book shows regular oil and filter changes, coolant flushes and timing belt (or chain) service at the manufacturer‑specified intervals; if records are missing, consider a full fluid change and a timing‑belt inspection. A thorough test drive listening for any abnormal noises, monitoring steering response and ensuring all electronic indicators are functional will give the buyer a clear picture of the car’s current mechanical condition and the likely near‑term maintenance budget.