2018 Peugeot Boxer 2.0L Diesel · YN68 CKA

The most recent MOT on 30 August 2024 recorded a pass, but it was preceded by a failure on the same day for a missing nearside rear registration‑plate lamp, an off‑side front headlamp that did not illuminate on dipped beam and a front windscreen chip. Earlier failures have included a major front‑brake imbalance in September 2022 and a deficient parking‑brake efficiency in September 2021. Although the vehicle has cleared each subsequent test, the pattern shows a mixture of recurring minor electrical faults and once‑off major brake concerns that have apparently been rectified, suggesting a maintenance record that is generally stabilising but still requires attention to prevent deterioration. At eight years old the boxer has logged 231,906 miles, an average of just under 29,000 miles per year. This is well above the typical UK usage rate and indicates a high‑wear duty cycle, likely involving frequent stop‑and‑go or long‑haul work. Such mileage accelerates wear on engine bearings, timing belt or chain, clutch, gearbox synchronisers, suspension bushings, and tyre rubber. It also means that many service‑interval items will have been reached several times over, and any lapses in scheduled fluid changes will have compounded wear on the cooling and braking systems. When you inspect the vehicle, give particular focus to the lighting circuit: verify that all registration‑plate lamps, side‑repeaters and both dipped and main‑beam headlamps illuminate correctly and that the lenses are free of condensation or cracks. Examine the windscreen for any expansion of the existing chip or new fractures that could allow water ingress. On a test drive, listen for any uneven braking feel, pull to one side or a pulsating pedal which would indicate residual brake‑balance issues, and check that the handbrake holds firmly on a gentle incline. Pay close attention to any clunking or squeaking from the front suspension, especially over bumps, as the high mileage will have stressed the coil springs, shock absorbers and rubber bushings. Given the vehicle’s age and mileage, also assess the condition of the tyres – look for tread depth below 3 mm, sidewall cracking or dry‑rot, and confirm that the tyres are not more than six years old regardless of tread. Test the 12‑volt battery with a load tester; an eight‑year‑old battery is likely near the end of its service life. Inspect for any signs of corrosion on the chassis, especially around the wheel arches and under the vehicle, which can be exacerbated by long periods of standing. Finally, request the full service book and verify that oil, coolant, brake fluid and transmission fluid have been changed at the manufacturer‑recommended intervals; if the records are missing, treat the next service as a comprehensive fluid and filter replacement.