2018 Peugeot 308 2.0L Diesel · RA18 XJD

The 2018 Peugeot 308 remains roadworthy following its May 2026 test, though the maintenance trend shows a deterioration in front-end suspension integrity. The most recent examination on 2026-05-21 at 74,865 miles flagged a slight play in the offside front suspension rod ball joint droplink, alongside both front tyres worn close to the legal limit and on their edges. This represents a worsening condition compared to the clean bills of health recorded in 2022 and 2025, indicating that wear components are now degrading and require prompt attention. Accumulating 74,865 miles over eight years equates to roughly 9,358 miles annually, a typical usage pattern that rules out extreme standing or excessive motorway grinding. The annual intervals reveal steady accumulation, jumping from 27,219 miles in May 2022 to 41,442 miles by May 2023, then climbing consistently to 74,865 miles by late May 2026. No alarming gaps in testing or mileage spikes suggest the vehicle has been regularly used and maintained on an annual cycle. A physical inspection must focus heavily on the front suspension and wheel alignment, as the recurring edge wear on the front tyres strongly hints at a tracking issue exacerbated by the droplink play. The tester flagged offside front anti-roll bar linkage ball joint play back in 2023 at 41,442 miles, and the recent droplink play in 2026 suggests ongoing degradation of the front-end geometry. Buyers should thoroughly inspect the condition of the front coil springs, suspension bushes, and brake discs, as the 2024 advisory on front brake pads wearing thin means these consumables are likely due for replacement. Checking for structural corrosion around the subframe and suspension mounting points is also prudent, given the persistent nature of the wear patterns.