2015 Peugeot 208 1.2L Petrol · PR06 GAV

The most recent MOT outcome on 26 January 2026 indicates that, following a same-day fail on dangerous brake pad and brake disc conditions at the front, the vehicle subsequently passed on a retest, demonstrating that the immediate safety defects were rectified. Looking at the broader history, the maintenance trend is showing signs of increased wear rather than stable condition. The 2024 test recorded advisories for the same front brake components as well as a front suspension arm bush wear, and the failure at the start of 2026 confirms that these advisories progressed into a dangerous defect within roughly sixteen months. Several other advisories across 2022 and 2023 relating to the front suspension, front tyres, exhaust mounting, and a rear wheel bearing further suggest that the vehicle has been accumulating age-related wear at a steady pace, and a prospective buyer should treat this pattern as indicative of a car that has now reached a stage where several major mechanical consumables will be due for replacement. With approximately 92,402 recorded miles over eleven years, the vehicle is running at an average of around 8,400 miles annually, which is broadly typical for its age and class. The MOT history reflects fairly consistent annual testing with no extended absences from the road, suggesting the vehicle has been in regular use rather than left standing for prolonged periods. This continuous running pattern is generally favourable for mechanical components such as brake discs, callipers, suspension bushes, and the 12V battery, as regular operation reduces the risk of severe corrosion seizing. However, at this mileage the engine, clutch (if manual), gearbox, and turbocharger internals will have accrued substantial wear, and consumables including timing chains or belts, water pump, and gearbox fluid may be approaching or past their intended service intervals. It would be prudent to verify the completeness and authenticity of the service book, with particular attention to cambelt or timing chain replacement evidence and any supporting invoices. Given the recurring front brake and suspension wear flagged across multiple tests, this should be the primary area of physical inspection. On a test drive, listen for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven road surfaces, which would indicate worn anti-roll bar drop links, wishbone bushes, or strut top mountings; the 2024 advisory for a nearside front suspension arm pin or bush is a known weak point on Peugeot 208s and is likely to have deteriorated further by now. The front brake discs were recorded as excessively worn at the latest test and will almost certainly have been replaced along with the pads, but inspect them for any scorching, lipping, or uneven surface finish, and verify that the new components are of reputable quality. On a moderately firm brake application from around 40 mph, the car should pull up straight and true without any vibration through the steering wheel or pedal, which would indicate disc runout or warped replacement discs. The rear wheel bearing noise noted in 2022 should also be rechecked, as a slight noise can develop into a more pronounced rumble indicating imminent bearing failure. Beyond the documented MOT items, several age- and mileage-related checks are warranted. Inspect all four tyres for sidewall perishing and cracking, as rubber degrades with calendar age regardless of tread depth, and confirm that they are of matching brand, size, and at least 2 mm of remaining tread across the full width. Examine the exhaust system downstream of the catalytic converter for blowing gases, paying attention to the flexi section referenced in earlier advisories, and listen for any rattles on the overrun. Check the underside, jacking points, and suspension subframes for any surface corrosion, particularly given the recorded exhaust mounting issues which can allow water ingress. Verify the operation of both headlamps on main and dipped beam, the headlamp levelling system, and the day time running lamps referenced in earlier advisories. Finally, confirm the condition and charge state of the 12V battery, the colour and level of the engine oil and coolant, the integrity of all drive belts, and the service history for timing chain or cambelt replacement, as these represent the most consequential unknowns not visible on the MOT record alone.