2020 Peugeot Partner 1.5L Diesel · VU70 NGZ

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 24 November 2025 resulted in a fail prior to passing on the same date, indicating that remedial work was carried out to bring the vehicle to a roadworthy standard before certification. The failure was driven by a serious suspension issue, with all four shock absorbers flagged as defective, the front pair for having negligible damping effect and the rear pair for serious fluid leaks. These are not trivial advisories but Major defects that directly compromise ride quality, handling stability, and braking composure, particularly under load or on uneven surfaces. Looking at the broader history, the 2023 test also featured Major failures relating to both front outer constant velocity joint boots and an offside front track rod end with excessive play, suggesting a pattern of chassis and drivetrain wear that is cumulative rather than incidental. While the vehicle has ultimately passed its last two tests, the density of Major defects and advisories across consecutive examinations points to a maintenance trend that is more reactive than preventative, and a prospective buyer should anticipate that further attention to steering and suspension consumables will be required in the near term. With 139,531 miles recorded over roughly six years, this Peugeot Partner has accumulated approximately 23,255 miles annually, which is well above the average for a light commercial vehicle of this age and is consistent with intensive working use. There are no obvious large gaps in the recorded mileage from the available test history, suggesting the vehicle has been in continuous service rather than left standing for extended periods. High annual mileage of this nature accelerates wear on all consumables and mechanical components, particularly the clutch, turbocharger if diesel, braking system, suspension bushes, coil springs, and engine ancillaries. The mileage context alone justifies a more thorough mechanical inspection than might be expected for a lower-use example, as the drivetrain and chassis will have experienced proportionate demand. A van of this profile would also typically have seen heavier payload loading, which compounds fatigue on the rear springs and shock absorbers. Given the recent failure on all four shock absorbers, a test drive should focus carefully on the suspension behaviour. Listen for clonks or knocking noises over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, or when turning at low speed, which may indicate worn top mounts, drop links, or anti-roll bar bushes not yet recorded as defective. Carry out multiple moderate to firm brake applications from around 40 mph to check for any pulling to the left or right, vibration through the pedal, or shudder through the steering wheel, as these can reveal warped brake discs, binding calipers, or uneven pad wear. Inspect the condition of all four tyres closely, paying particular attention to the nearside front and both rear tyres that were flagged for edge wear, as misaligned tracking, worn suspension components, or improper inflation could all contribute to the wear pattern observed. Edge wear in particular often points to geometry issues that may not yet have been fully resolved, and the tracking should be checked professionally with a four-wheel aligner. The 2023 failure on the front track rod end and the repeated CV joint boot defects indicate that the steering and drivetrain have already required intervention, so it is prudent to inspect the rubber boots for any current signs of split, grease loss, or deterioration, and to check for play in the steering by rocking the front wheels side to side with the engine off. Brake pad advisories from 2023 and 2024 suggest the braking system has been worked hard, and the discs should be examined for lipping, corrosion, or surface scoring, particularly given the high mileage. Beyond the recorded items, a vehicle of this age and intensive use should have its timing belt or cam belt replacement interval verified against service history if it is a diesel variant, as failure of this component typically causes catastrophic engine damage. The 12V battery should be load tested, coolant and brake fluid checked for age-related degradation, and the underside inspected for oil or fluid leaks, paying particular attention to the rear shock absorber mounting areas where the recent fluid leaks were noted. Finally, confirm that all reported Major defects have receipts for replacement components, ideally with the parts fitted being of reputable quality, and ensure the service book reflects regular oil and filter changes at intervals appropriate to the high mileage this vehicle has clearly endured.