1998 Peugeot 406 2.1L Diesel · R41 ABT

This 1998 Peugeot 406 has maintained a stable MOT history with no defects recorded in any of the five tests spanning from March 2022 to April 2025. The most recent test in April 2025—just 13 months ago—confirmed the vehicle passed without fail, though the immediate prior test on the same date in 2025 was unusually a failure with no recorded issues. This anomaly suggests either a temporary administrative oversight or an undocumented pre-test adjustment, but no mechanical faults were subsequently identified in the following pass. The absence of advisories or recurring failures across all tests implies consistent compliance with basic MOT standards, though this does not preclude hidden wear or deferred maintenance. The recorded mileage of 162,812 miles over 28 years reflects unusually light usage, averaging just 5,815 miles annually—a rate far below the typical 10,000–12,000 miles expected for a vehicle of this age. The gaps between tests are regular, with no abrupt spikes in mileage, which could indicate prolonged storage or infrequent driving. For instance, between the March 2023 and April 2024 tests, the vehicle accrued only 7,053 miles in 13 months, a pattern that may contribute to slower degradation of high-mileage components like suspension bushes or drivetrain seals. However, this also raises questions about whether fluids (coolant, gearbox oil, differential fluid) have been regularly changed, as stagnation can accelerate corrosion and sludge formation. Given the lack of MOT defects, a buyer should prioritise an independent inspection of the suspension geometry and bushings, particularly the rear subframe mounts and track arms, which are common failure points in this model. The brakes—though never flagged—should be scrutinised for uneven wear or binding calipers, as the 1998 specification often suffers from hydraulic leaks or warped discs after prolonged low-mileage storage. Structural integrity is another concern; the underbody and wheel arches should be examined for corrosion, especially around the sills and rear quarter panels, where rust can compromise the body’s load-bearing capacity. Finally, the exhaust system warrants close inspection for leaks or excessive corrosion, as emissions systems in older Peugeot models are prone to failure if not maintained. The absence of advisories does not guarantee these areas are sound, but it does suggest the vehicle has avoided obvious neglect.