The Best and Worst Peugeots for Car Repairs and Passing the MOT

Is it time for you to take your MOT? While you might think that passing the MOT simply requires a bit of upkeep on the car you own, the make and model you choose may actually play a role. Some vehicles are more prone to problems than others, and recent reports have shown that the Peugeot is one of them.

In 2008, only 75.3% Peugeot 308s passed their MOT, and in 2013, the Peugeot 5008 made a 'top ten worst cars for the MOT' list with an average pass rate of 68.1%

If you own a Peugeot, does this automatically mean you're doomed? Absolutely not. There are steps you can take to ensure you pass the MOT.

Easy Steps for Passing the MOT

No matter what Peugeot you purchase, there are steps you can take to ensure its car parts are functional and able to pass the MOT. Let's take a look at a few easy steps you can take.

• Set up Reminders- First of all, take precautions so you're prepared for when the MOT comes. You don't want to wake up the day before you're scheduled for the test and realise you have nothing accomplished. MOT reminders and even service reminders are available through many resources, including your insurance company, at no charge. Take advantage of them.
  

• Don't Forget the Little Things- It's those little things that often mean pass or fail for Peugeots. Always make sure that all the lights on the car are working correctly, that the number plate is clean, that your horn works, and there is plenty of screenwash in the washer bottle. These items may seem insignificant, but they can make or break you.
  

• Fill it up- Is there enough petrol and engine oil in the car? During the MOT, the tester will run the car through a battery of emissions tests. These tests require that the fuel and oil are at suitable levels. If they aren't, your Peugeot will fail.
  

While taking care of your Peugeot and being prepared can make a world of difference in whether you're able to pass the MOT, it doesn't always end there. Certain Peugeots are more prone to needing repairs and replacement car parts. Knowing what to expect from your Peugeot and ensuring that these Peugeots parts are in good condition before entering the testing facility can be essential.

Problems to Expect From the Peugeot 308

The Peugeot 308 has had problems with passing the MOT in the past, and that could have to do with the number of potential issues that occur with this car. If you own this model, it's important to know what issues you're up against so you can repair them before you're due for the MOT.

• Turbo Issues- This model can have a few issues with the turbo. If you see black or blue smoke coming out of the exhaust, hear a whistling noise, or experience loss of power, the turbo may be damaged. It will need to be replaced, as well as the EGR valve to avoid further problems.
  

• Anti-pollution Warnings- As mentioned above, your Peugeot will have a few emissions tests run on it. A problem with the anti-pollution system in the car can greatly interfere with whether you pass these tests or not. If you notice this warning light come on, your Peugeot Emission Filter, or PEF, is most likely to blame. This filter is responsible for removing and particles that could be harmful. In many cases the filter will need to be replaced.
  

• Starting Problems- While starting problems can be the result of a number of damaged Peugeot 308 parts, these issues are generally caused by a software problem in the ECU. To pass the MOT, you'll need to make sure the software is updated before taking the car to the testing center.
  

Peugeot 5008 Problems to Expect

With only a 68.1% chance of passing the MOT in 2013, you'd no doubt expect the 5008 to come with a few problems. While this car may have an updated, sleek look, it has a few niggling issues that hurt its chances during the MOT.

• Boot Lock- Many 5008 owners experience issues with the boot lock on their vehicle not working properly. It may not shut properly or may not lock when the central locking is engaged. This often indicates a broken lock switch that will need to be replaced.
  

• Windscreen Washer Failure- The windscreen washer on the rear window of this Peugeot is known to fail, especially during the winter, when they are likely to freeze. If you notice that the jets are not spraying any liquid onto the window prior to your MOT or ther eare stains on the roof of the car at the rear, replace this car part immediately.
  

• Handbrake Issues- During the MOT, your electric handbrake will be tested. If it is not engaging correctly or holding the weight of the car, your car will likely fail. Check this issue before going in for the test. Failure can be caused by a couple of Peugeot parts, including the control modules and switches. Once you have determined what is causing it, the part will need to be repaired or replaced.
  

Problems to Expect with the Peugeot 208 GTI

The Peugeot 208 is one of the hottest cars on the market today, and for good reason. While there are some common issues with 208 GTI parts, the majority of issues can be easily fixed.

• Gearbox Problems- Have you noticed that your 208 seems to be having trouble going into reverse? This is a common issue and a design flaw. No parts will need to be replaced, and the issue should correct itself after the car has been driven for a few miles. In some cases, it helps to let off the clutch and then re-engage.
  

• Display Screen Issues- Are you having trouble playing music with your display screen or seeing your speed? This is due to a software fault. The software must upgraded to fix this issue.
  

• Bonnet Latch Issues- One some Peugeot GTI 208s on the market, owners have experienced failure of the bonnet latch, witch makes it difficult for the bonnet to be opened or closed properly. This issue was subject to recall, and requires that the latch be replaced.
  

Worried about how your Peugeot will fare at the MOT? Some Peugeots may be better than others, but if you understand each of their common problems and fix these Euro car parts as soon as they come become an issue, you should have no trouble passing your MOT.