2016 Peugeot 208 1.6L Diesel · SA66 XAJ

The most recent MOT on 22 April 2024 was recorded as a pass, yet it followed a failed test three days earlier that highlighted thin rear brake pads, worn front and rear discs, a defective central exhaust mounting and a dangerous condition on the rear brake pads. Over the last six years the vehicle has alternated between clean passes and failures, with recurring advisories for tyre tread limits, a split constant‑velocity boot on the off‑side front drive‑shaft and intermittent lighting faults. This pattern suggests that while the car has been kept road‑worthy enough to pass, there is an underlying trend of deferred wear items that have re‑emerged, indicating a maintenance regime that is not consistently proactive. At 59,852 mi the 2016 Peugeot 208 averages just under 6,000 mi per year, considerably below the typical UK usage of 10‑12 000 mi annually. The low annual mileage points to relatively light use, but the intermittent failures imply periods of inactivity where components such as the CV boot, brake pads and tyres may have been subjected to ageing rather than wear. Prolonged standing can accelerate rubber hardening, corrosion of suspension bushings and the degradation of seals, so the mileage figure alone does not guarantee a pristine mechanical condition. A prospective buyer should give particular attention to the braking system. The rear pads were recorded as dangerously thin in the most recent failure, and both front and rear discs were noted as pitted; these parts are likely approaching the end of their service life and should be inspected for scoring, excessive vibration or brake pedal pulsation during a test drive. Replacement of the rear pads is urgent, and the discs may need resurfacing or replacement to avoid reduced braking efficiency and potential heat‑related warping. The split CV boot on the off‑side front drive‑shaft should be examined for grease leakage, splatter on the wheel hub and any clicking or whine when accelerating or decelerating, as a compromised joint can quickly lead to joint failure. The central exhaust mounting, flagged as defective, should be checked for rattles, excessive vibration or exhaust leaks that could affect cabin comfort and emissions compliance. Tyres were repeatedly warned as being close to the legal tread limit; verify that all four tyres have sufficient depth, uniform wear and no sidewall cracking, and be prepared to replace them if they are approaching the 1.6 mm minimum. Beyond the specific faults, the car’s age and low utilisation merit a broader inspection. Confirm the health of the 12 V battery, especially its cranking voltage after a short idle, as batteries tend to lose capacity when a vehicle sits for long periods. Inspect all fluid reservoirs – engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and power‑steering fluid – for colour, level and signs of contamination, and consider a full service change if the last documented service predates the current year. Examine the chassis and suspension for rust on the subframe, wheel arches and suspension mounting points, and check the condition of rubber bushings and coil springs for cracking or loss of resilience. Finally, review the service book for evidence of regular oil changes, timing‑belt or chain maintenance and any recorded repairs to the items highlighted above, as a well‑documented history will give confidence that the vehicle has been looked after despite its intermittent MOT failures.