1997 Peugeot 406 2.1L Diesel · P81 NAR

A chronic oil leak defines the mechanical history of this vehicle, appearing as an advisory in every single test from 2020 through to the most recent pass on 2025-07-24. This persistent leak, combined with a history of recurring brake and suspension advisories, indicates a vehicle with several long-term wear issues. While the vehicle has maintained its roadworthiness, the repetition of these specific defects suggests that certain components are degrading without being fully rectified. The recorded mileage of 173,945 miles is low for a vehicle of this age, averaging approximately 5,998 miles per year over nearly three decades. This usage pattern suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to heavy daily commuting, yet the mileage is sufficient to have caused significant wear on the drivetrain and chassis. The steady annual testing interval indicates the vehicle has remained in active use rather than suffering from the degradation associated with long periods of stagnation. Attention must be paid to the front steering and suspension geometry, as the MOT records show repeated advisories for front tyres worn on the inner edges in 2020, 2022, and 2024. During a test drive, check for any steering pull or instability at speed, which may correlate with the previously noted steering box leak and rear suspension arm ball joint play. The history of corroded brake pipes and pitted brake discs requires a close inspection of the braking system for any signs of further oxidation or pedal judder under heavy braking. Further inspection should focus on the underbody to assess the current state of the persistent oil leak and the front exhaust section, which was flagged for leaking in 2023. Listen for humming or droning noises from the rear, which could indicate a recurrence of the offside rear wheel bearing play noted in 2022. Finally, examine the rear shock absorber bushes for perished rubber, as these were previously identified as worn, which may manifest as excessive bouncing or instability over undulating road surfaces.