2012 Peugeot 107 1.0L Petrol · OV62 NHB

The most recent MOT test on 2026-03-14 resulted in a clean pass with no defects, marking a positive turnaround following a history of recurring advisories that had appeared in the preceding three years. While the vehicle’s overall maintenance trend is now stable, the presence of persistent issues—particularly around the anti-roll bar linkages and exhaust system—suggests that the car has encountered wear-related problems that require attention before they escalate to more serious failures. The advisories from the 2022 and 2023 MOTs indicate that the anti-roll bar linkage components were worn but not yet causing functional compromise, while the exhaust minor leaks hint at potential structural fatigue or joint degradation that could worsen with continued use. These findings imply that the vehicle has been subjected to moderate stress, likely from either heavy or prolonged loading, and that proactive servicing of these components will be essential to preserve roadworthiness and longevity. The recorded mileage of 42,905 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 14 years represents an unusually low annual usage rate of around 3,065 miles per year, which is significantly below the typical wear thresholds for a car of this age. Such low mileage often reflects periods of stationary use, which can lead to specific issues such as corrosion from standing fluids, brake system binding due to moisture absorption, and potential tyre sidewall degradation from prolonged exposure to environmental elements. However, the absence of higher-mileage wear patterns—such as excessive tyre tread wear, uneven suspension travel, or drivetrain grinding—suggests that the vehicle has not been subjected to the kind of aggressive driving or heavy load conditions that would accelerate component wear. Nevertheless, the low mileage also raises concerns about whether the car has been adequately maintained during periods of inactivity, as standing vehicles are particularly vulnerable to corrosion and fluid degradation. Given the recurring advisories on the anti-roll bar linkages and exhaust system, the prospective buyer should prioritise a thorough inspection of these components during the purchase process. The worn anti-roll bar linkage pins or bushes, while not failing the MOT, may exhibit excessive play or binding when the suspension is stressed, which could lead to uneven tyre wear, poor handling, or even suspension failure under hard braking or cornering. On a test drive, listen for a rhythmic clunking or rattling from the front or rear suspension when the vehicle is driven over bumps or accelerated, as this often indicates loose or degraded suspension linkages. Additionally, check for any uneven tyre wear patterns, particularly on the inner or outer edges of the front tyres, which could signal misalignment or suspension misalignment caused by the worn linkages. For the exhaust minor leaks, inspect the exhaust manifold, joints, and brackets for signs of rust or cracks, and listen for any hissing sounds or unusual emissions when the engine is running, as these may indicate gas escaping through a compromised joint or corroded pipework. For the buyer’s practical inspection, the vehicle’s low mileage and age warrant a focus on age-related wear and potential standing-related issues. Begin by examining the tyres for signs of sidewall perishing or cracking, which can compromise structural integrity and safety, especially if the vehicle has been stationary for extended periods. Check the brake system for any signs of corrosion on the discs or binding calipers, as standing fluids can cause moisture-induced rusting that may lead to reduced braking performance or even failure. Inspect the battery terminals and cables for corrosion, and test the battery’s charge capacity with a multimeter or load tester, as older batteries may struggle to maintain power during prolonged inactivity. Fluid checks should include the engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, all of which can degrade over time, even with low mileage. Ensure the service book is up to date, particularly for time-based maintenance such as the oil change interval, which for many modern vehicles is recommended every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Finally, verify the vehicle’s structural integrity by inspecting the body panels for dents, rust, or signs of previous damage that could affect the vehicle’s roadworthiness or resale value.