2009 Peugeot Partner 1.6L Diesel · ST09 DXB

A concerning structural failure on the front suspension has defined the recent MOT record of this 2009 Peugeot Partner, though the vehicle ultimately cleared its most recent test. On 2025-10-06 the car failed with a major defect for a seriously weakened offside front Macpherson strut mounting, accompanied by an advisory for a fluctuating offside front service brake. Just eight days later, on 2025-10-14, it returned and passed with no defects recorded, suggesting the strut mounting was replaced or repaired, though no advisories from the failure were carried forward to document the work. Prior to this, the record showed strong roadworthiness, with passes in October 2024 and October 2023 free of recorded defects. However, an earlier failure on 2023-10-04 for a split nearside front outer CV joint boot shows that the drivetrain and underbody have not been entirely trouble-free. The combination of a major structural suspension failure and a CV boot failure across recent tests indicates intermittent but meaningful wear on the running gear that warrants scrutiny. Recorded mileage stands at 49,791 miles across approximately 17 years of service, equating to an average annual accumulation of around 2,929 miles. This is notably low for a commercial-derived van of this age and likely reflects periods of light use or standing, as the mileage history shows several short MOT intervals with modest increases between tests. The very small gap between the failure and subsequent pass in October 2025 suggests the vehicle was actively in use and repaired promptly, but the generally low mileage means that age-related deterioration of rubber components, seals, brake hydraulic systems, and chassis corrosion may be more relevant than high-mileage wear items. Extended standing periods can also bring their own issues such as seized brake calipers and corroded brake discs, particularly given the advisory recorded for brake fluctuation. For a prospective buyer, the Macpherson strut mounting failure is the single most important area to investigate, as a seriously weakened top mount or strut tower can compromise both handling and structural integrity. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking from the front suspension over bumps, particularly on the offside, and pay attention to any vagueness or uneven steering response at low speeds. Inspect the offside front strut top mount area for signs of repair, such as fresh paint or disturbed panels, and verify the suspension compresses and rebounds smoothly without crunching. The earlier CV boot failure means the nearside front outer drive shaft joint should be examined for fresh grease around the rubber boot and listened for clicking or vibration under sharp turns, which would indicate a worn joint. The fluctuating offside front service brake noted on the failure advisory points toward potential caliper binding, a warped brake disc, or uneven pad wear, all of which are common on low-mileage vehicles that have sat for extended periods. During the test drive, apply the brakes firmly from speed and feel for any judder through the pedal, pulling to one side, or a soft or spongy pedal feel that could indicate a sticking caliper or compromised hydraulic system. Visually inspect the offside front disc for a prominent lip on the outer edge and surface rust pitting, both of which suggest the brake may not have been bedded in correctly. Given the age of the vehicle and the structural suspension issue already encountered, a thorough pre-purchase inspection on a ramp is strongly advised to check for corrosion around the front strut towers, subframe, and brake pipes.