2021 Peugeot Horizon 1.2L Petrol · SB21 JFU

A clean pass on 14 August 2026 masks a more revealing event earlier in the year, when the vehicle failed its MOT on 13 February and was re-presented four days later with two defect categories resolved. The principal issue at that failed test was a nearside front tyre worn below the legal 1.6mm tread threshold, which is a Dangerous category failure and means the car was not roadworthy in its prior state. A further Major defect was recorded against the nearside front seat belt buckle, which was not functioning as intended, indicating either a faulty latch mechanism or a pretensioner/stalk issue requiring replacement before the re-test. While the subsequent pass is reassuring, a buyer should note that this Peugeot presented a meaningful safety concern only months ago, and the short turnaround between the fail and re-pass suggests repair rather than deterioration. Annual mileage of roughly 3,313 miles over a five-year period is substantially below average for the segment and points to either limited commuting use or extended periods of standing. Such low utilisation carries distinct mechanical implications: brake discs and pads are prone to surface corrosion and binding caliper behaviour from infrequent operation, cooling system seals and hoses can deteriorate without regular thermal cycling, and the 12V battery is likely to have suffered some degree of capacity loss through periods of inactivity. The recurring low coolant level advisory across both the February 2026 failed test and the subsequent pass is consistent with this pattern, as minor seepage at hose joints or the expansion tank can persist unnoticed on a seldom-driven car. Equally, the front brake pad wear advisory recorded at the same test suggests the nearside and offside pads are approaching replacement threshold rather than being mid-life. Regarding the brake system specifically, on a test drive the buyer should test for pull under moderate braking, listen for any grinding or scraping from the front calipers that might indicate corrosion on the discs where pads have made infrequent contact, and verify the handbrake holds firmly on an incline. The earlier tyre tread below 1.6mm indicates the nearside front axle may wear faster, possibly through alignment or geometry issues, so check for uneven shoulder wear on any replacement tyres fitted since February 2026 and confirm tracking is within tolerance. With the coolant advisory, inspect the expansion tank, radiator hoses, and water pump area for any dampness or staining, and verify the level is genuinely topped up rather than masking an active leak. The seat belt buckle repair should be confirmed as a genuine replacement rather than a temporary rectification; operate the buckle firmly and listen for a clean positive click, and tug sharply to ensure it holds under load. Beyond the recorded defects, given the low mileage and likely periods of standing, examine the exhaust hangers and rubber mounts for perishing, check for any binding in the handbrake mechanism, and look closely at the underbody and subframe mounting points for any early corrosion consistent with limited use on damp roads. A thorough inspection of the service book to confirm recent oil and filter changes is essential, as low annual mileage does not obviate the need for time-based fluid and filter replacement, particularly given the brake fluid and coolant concerns already recorded.