2005 Peugeot 407 1.6L Diesel · SV55 WYR

The brake system dominates the MOT history, with repeated serious defects on the off‑side front side and recurring service‑brake instability that have persisted from 2021 through the latest 2023 test, which recorded a dangerous‑level disc weakening, excessive pedal fluctuation and an ABS warning lamp fault. Earlier years show a pattern of front‑disc wear advisories escalating to major failures, while rear‑brake discs and service‑brake fluctuation have also been flagged as major or advisory items on several occasions, indicating that the braking subsystem has been a chronic weak point rather than an isolated incident. At 116,835 mi for a 21‑year‑old Peugeot 407 the annual average sits around 5,500 mi, well below the typical usage rate for a vehicle of this age. Such low mileage can arise from intermittent periods of inactivity, which does not prevent age‑related degradation of components such as brake discs, hoses and suspension mounts. The modest mileage therefore does not mitigate the observed brake wear and corrosion issues; rather, it suggests that the wear recorded is more a function of time and service intervals than high‑kilometre stress. When inspecting the car, focus first on the front brake assembly: measure disc thickness against the manufacturer’s minimum, look for deep scoring or cracks, and feel for pedal pulsation or a spongy, inconsistent response that would echo the “excessively fluctuating” service‑brake fault. Verify that the ABS warning lamp remains extinguished and that the system engages smoothly during a low‑speed test. Examine both front and rear brake hoses for the slight ferrule corrosion noted in 2021 and for any signs of external cracking or fluid leakage, and replace them as a precaution. The tyre wear advisories from 2022 imply that the front tyres were close to the legal limit, so a thorough tread depth check and sidewall inspection are essential before committing to the purchase. The rear‑exhaust box was recorded as deteriorated with a temporary repair in 2020, so a visual inspection for rust, holes or loose clamps is advisable, as any exhaust leak can affect engine performance and emissions compliance. The near‑side front suspension mounting corrosion noted in 2019 should be probed for any play or audible creaks when driving over bumps, which could indicate progression beyond the advisory level. Finally, confirm that all rear stop lamps illuminate correctly, as multiple MOTs flagged partial failure, and ensure the windscreen washer system delivers adequate fluid, a minor but required item from the 2020 failure. Given the concentration of brake‑related failures, a comprehensive brake service—including disc and pad replacement, hose renewal and ABS diagnostics—should be budgeted before the vehicle can be considered road‑worthy.