The first thing I would do is check air and fuel related things.
My previous owner did not have an air filter in when I bought the car.
Some types of people are lazy, and if they cannot find their Peugeot air
filters at their local auto parts store, well then they wont put one in.
The second thing I would check is their oil changing history. Look at the
persons records and make a visual inspection of your own.
The third thing I would check, is wiring and warning lights. If the car
has ABS and the light is on then go ahead and give the ABS unit a good
inspection. Also while you are by the ABS unit check to see the condition
of the wiring. Does it look like a rats nest? A British car background
would be helpful. Peugeot must receive kick-backs from relay companies,
because there sure are in my 505 STI V6. As far as the transmission is
concerned, I would first check the owners records, then make my own
inspection. Check for leaks, jerky shifting (some is normal for this
beast). I would also go for a nice drive on a freeway, followed by some
stop and go traffic. One time while on the freeway with my engine running
bad (the timing was retarded, as the spark plugs had water in them from
me washing them! ), I touched the hand-brake and noticed that it was very
hot. This is something you can use to check the transmission. Rule of
thumb of transmission is to learn how to make adjustments to your driving
to avoid thunking the transmission, and keep the fluid clean. Its easy to
change, and changing it every 7,000- 12,000 thousand miles may seem like
overkill, but then again overkill can be used to describe the cost of
rebuilding one. Other than that just the usual inspections for used cars
are fine.
Before I bought my 505 V6 I was told, and will agree with:
1. The PRV V6 (Peugeot,Renault,Volvo) is a strong engine, and if taken
care of can reach 300,000 miles or more. (Pat Whale of French Revolution
in Austin has never had to rebuild one)
2. Its fast (yes it is)
3. You will love it, and not want to drive other cars. (True)
Of all the junk yards I frequent, I have yet to find one V6 505!