2009 Peugeot 407 2.0L Diesel · RV09 PWE

The most recent MOT test on the 2009 Peugeot 407 recorded a passing result on 2026-07-29, though it is preceded by two failures in the preceding two years, most notably in 2024-10-17 where critical brake pad thickness below the 1.5mm legal minimum was flagged as a dangerous failure. The overall maintenance trend appears inconsistent, with recurring advisories on brake components, suspension joints, and tyre condition that suggest wear beyond the MOT threshold but not yet critical. The vehicle’s history also reveals a pattern of persistent minor defects—such as oil leaks, corroded towbar, and worn suspension bushes—indicating either underlying mechanical fatigue or a history of neglect in addressing these issues. While the latest test cleared the car, the presence of multiple advisories on the same items from past MOTs suggests that further deterioration could occur without proactive maintenance. The recorded mileage of 127,432 miles for a vehicle aged approximately 17 years represents a moderate annual usage rate of around 7,496 miles per annum, which is within the expected range for a car of this age and class. However, the mileage alone does not fully explain the wear patterns observed in the MOT history, as lower mileage could result from prolonged periods of inactivity, leading to issues such as standing corrosion on the towbar or brake components, or fluid degradation from stagnation. Conversely, higher-than-average mileage would accelerate wear on consumables like brake pads, suspension bushes, and tyres, which aligns with the recurring advisories on brake wear and suspension joints. The absence of a clear spike in mileage over recent years does not preclude the need for thorough inspection, particularly of components prone to fatigue or corrosion, such as the suspension arms and brake systems. Given the recurring advisories on brake pads and discs, the buyer should prioritise a detailed inspection of the braking system. Front brake pads are dangerously thin at less than 1.5mm in the 2024 MOT failure, indicating imminent wear-out and potential glazing or warping of the discs, which can lead to reduced braking efficiency or even failure under heavy loads. Listen for a grinding noise when applying the brakes, which suggests metal-to-metal contact between the pads and discs, and inspect the discs for scoring or pitting—symptoms of excessive friction or thermal damage. Replace the front brake pads immediately and consider a full brake system overhaul if the discs show signs of severe wear or corrosion. Additionally, check the rear brake pads and discs for similar signs of thinning or scoring, and verify that the brake fluid level is adequate and free from contamination, as brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, reducing its effectiveness. For the suspension system, the advisories on worn suspension arms and anti-roll bar linkages highlight potential issues with ball joints and bushings, which can lead to excessive play, clunking noises during cornering or over bumps, or uneven tyre wear. Inspect the suspension arms for cracks or excessive wear on the pins or bushings, and listen for a rattling or clunking sound when driving over rough roads, particularly on the near-side suspension. If play is detected, the joints should be replaced to prevent further damage to the control arms or steering components. The oil leak advisories suggest a need for a thorough inspection of the engine bay for loose or failing seals, particularly around the valve cover, oil filter housing, or transmission fluid cooler, as persistent leaks can lead to overheating or increased wear. Finally, address the tyre conditions, as both near-side rear and front tyres show signs of cracking or perishing, which can compromise grip and safety, especially in wet or adverse conditions. Rotate the tyres according to manufacturer recommendations and consider replacing them if the sidewall cracking is extensive or if the tread depth is below the legal minimum of 1.6mm.