2009 Peugeot 308 1.6L Diesel · WL09 FDE

Recurring tyre wear and escalating corrosion on structural and braking components define the mechanical history of this Peugeot 308, which most recently passed its MOT on 2 July 2026. While the vehicle has maintained a consistent record of annual passes, the persistence of advisories regarding tyre degradation and brake backing plate corrosion suggests a pattern of deferred maintenance on consumable and chassis items. The record shows a recurring issue with uneven tyre wear on the nearside front, which has been flagged in consecutive tests, alongside a history of brake disc pitting and structural surface corrosion that indicates the vehicle has been subjected to significant environmental exposure over its seventeen-year lifespan. Accumulating 103,001 miles over seventeen years results in an average annual usage of approximately 6,059 miles. This relatively low-intensity usage profile often leads to specific mechanical risks, particularly the seizing of brake components and the degradation of rubber suspension bushings due to age rather than high-mileage wear. The absence of significant gaps in the testing history confirms the vehicle has remained in regular use, which mitigates the risk of long-term storage-related issues like fuel system varnish or severe internal engine oxidation, though it does not eliminate the potential for age-related fatigue in seals and gaskets. Prospective buyers should prioritise a thorough inspection of the front suspension and steering geometry, specifically focusing on the MacPherson strut mountings and the track rod ends. Given the repeated advisories for uneven tyre wear and play in the track rod ends, listen closely for knocking noises or clunking sounds when navigating uneven road surfaces or turning at low speeds. A test drive must include heavy braking to check for pedal judder or steering vibration, which would indicate that the brake discs, previously noted for pitting and scoring, have reached the end of their service life. Ensure the vehicle tracks straight on a flat road, as the persistent tyre wear issues may point to underlying alignment discrepancies that require professional adjustment. The corrosion noted on the rear brake back plates and the offside front strut mounting warrants a detailed physical inspection of the vehicle underside. Use a torch to examine the integrity of the brake back plates, as significant rust here can compromise the mounting points for the braking system. Furthermore, check the condition of the tyres for signs of cracking or perishing, particularly on the inner sidewalls, as the MOT history highlights a recurring tendency for the tyres to degrade before the tread depth reaches the legal minimum. Any visible flaking rust on the suspension subframe or chassis rails should be assessed for structural soundness, as surface corrosion can often mask deeper metal fatigue in vehicles of this age.