2013 Peugeot RCZ 1.6L Petrol · PF13 VVH

Rear‑axle wear dominates the MOT record, with a near‑constant series of advisories on the rear brake disc, rear tyre condition and rear shock‑absorber lower bushes. The latest test on 8 October 2025 recorded a pass but retained the same rear‑disc warning, tyre cracking notice and slightly worn shock‑absorber bushes, indicating that the underlying issues have persisted rather than been resolved. A single failure in October 2025 was limited to a headlamp fault and a central stop‑lamp fault, both of which were rectified for the subsequent pass, leaving the rear‑axle concerns as the primary mechanical story. At 43 558 mi the car averages roughly 3 350 mi per year, a mileage level that is low for a thirteen‑year‑old vehicle. The consistent annual testing schedule shows no significant gaps, suggesting the odometer reading is reliable and the car has not been subject to prolonged storage periods that could hide latent corrosion. Low overall mileage reduces cumulative wear on many components, yet the repeated rear‑tyre and brake‑disc advisories imply that the rear axle is experiencing age‑related degradation independent of mileage, possibly due to the vehicle’s front‑engine, front‑wheel‑drive layout placing a proportionally higher load on the rear suspension and braking elements. Prospective buyers should give the rear brake disc a close visual inspection for scoring, glazing or thinning, and feel for any pulsation or squealing under braking that would signal imminent replacement. The off‑side rear tyre has been flagged for cracking and feathering across three consecutive years; examine the tread for dry rot, sidewall cracks and uneven wear, and be prepared to replace it promptly if any of these signs are present. The lower bushes of both rear shock absorbers are recorded as slightly worn; a road test should include listening for clunking over bumps and checking for excessive bounce or uneven ride height, which would indicate the need for bush or shock replacement. Finally, verify that both headlamps illuminate correctly on dipped and main beams and that the central stop lamp functions, as these were previously noted as faults. While no front‑brake or steering defects appear in the MOT history, a comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection should still cover front brake pads, discs and steering linkage for any hidden wear. Confirm that all wheel bearings turn freely and that there is no visible corrosion on the chassis or subframe. Addressing the rear‑axle items identified above will be essential to ensuring the car remains roadworthy beyond the next MOT.