2008 Peugeot 207 1.6L Petrol · RF08 DDV

A recurring theme across the MOT history is the combination of age‑related wear and a handful of specific component failures that have required repeated attention – notably the braking system, exhaust integrity and a few ancillary items such as headlamp aim and seat‑adjuster function. The latest test recorded in April 2022 resulted in a pass, yet it still listed advisories for an oil leak, a slightly discoloured rear indicator and a damaged front mirror, and it recorded a failure for the nearside front headlamp being aimed too high. Earlier years show a pattern of brake‑related advisories (thin front and rear pads, worn front discs) and a major exhaust leak in 2019 that was subsequently cleared, indicating that while some faults have been remedied, the vehicle continues to present a modest load of age‑related defects. With 90 500 mi logged over an 18‑year lifespan the average annual mileage sits at roughly 5 000 mi, well below the typical usage rate for a small family car. The relatively low mileage suggests the vehicle has not been subjected to high‑stress driving, yet the MOT entries reveal that wear items such as brake pads, discs and the service brake on the nearside rear have deteriorated despite the modest distance. This points to component ageing and possible periods of inactivity rather than mileage‑driven failure, meaning that consumables will likely need replacement soon regardless of the odometer reading. Prospective buyers should focus the test drive on the braking system: feel for any pedal sponginess, judder or pull to one side, listen for squeal that may indicate thin pads or warped discs, and verify that the rear service brake releases cleanly without binding. Inspect the exhaust for any hissing, soot or unusual rattles that could signal a lingering leak or a compromised mounting, and check under the engine bay for fresh oil stains that would confirm the advisory‑listed leak. Verify that the nearside front headlamp is correctly aimed and that the driver’s seat fore‑and‑aft adjustment operates smoothly, as a failure in this area was recorded in 2022. Finally, confirm that all lighting functions are operational – the off‑side rear registration lamp, the off‑side plate lamp and the rear indicator lamps – and examine the front tyres for tread depth and edge wear, especially since an advisory about the nearside front tyre being close to the legal limit was noted in 2020. While the child‑seat obstruction advisory does not affect mechanical condition, it does mean the rear adult belts could not be fully inspected at that time, so a visual check of the rear seatbelts is advisable. Addressing these specific items will give a clearer picture of the car’s current roadworthiness beyond the MOT record.