Peugeot 207 1.6 HDi

The 1.6 HDi is well known for premature turbo failure caused by a narrow oil feed pipe that clogs with carbon deposits. Pre-2008 cars are most affected, as the original pipe design was too restrictive. A modified wider oil feed pipe was introduced from 2008 onward. Symptoms include loss of power, excessive smoke, and whining from the turbo area. A remanufactured turbo with fitting costs around €800-1,200 at an independent garage, while a new genuine turbo fitted at a Peugeot dealer can reach €1,500. When replacing the turbo, the oil feed pipe, return pipe, and oil strainer should always be replaced simultaneously. Regular oil changes every 10,000 km (rather than the official 20,000 km interval) help prevent carbon buildup.

Post-2010 1.6 HDi 90 models and all 110 hp models have a DPF that requires periodic regeneration. Short-trip urban driving prevents the exhaust from reaching the 500-600°C needed for automatic regeneration. Symptoms include the 'risk of particle filter blocking' warning message, loss of power, and increased fuel consumption. A forced regeneration at a garage costs around €100-200. Professional DPF cleaning runs €250-400. Full DPF replacement costs €800-1,800 depending on whether aftermarket or OEM. The DPF additive fluid (Eolys) reservoir also needs refilling every 80,000-120,000 km at a cost of approximately €150-300 including the counter reset. Pre-2010 90 hp models generally do not have a DPF.

A well-known issue on the 1.6 HDi where injector copper washers fail, allowing combustion gases to escape past the seal. This creates thick black carbon deposits around the injector — known colloquially as 'black death'. Injector number 3 is most commonly affected. If caught early, replacing the copper seals and plastic protectors costs only €50-150 in parts and labour. However, if left unattended, the escaping gases can erode the injector bore in the cylinder head, requiring a new or reconditioned cylinder head at €1,500-2,500. In the worst case, the head damage can be terminal. Regular inspection under the rocker cover and using the correct oil grade and specification are the best preventive measures.

The EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve accumulates carbon deposits over time, particularly with frequent short-trip driving. Symptoms include the 'depollution system faulty' warning message, rough idling, loss of power, and poor fuel economy. A stuck-open EGR valve can also cause the DPF to clog more quickly. Cleaning the EGR valve costs around €100-200, while a new programmable EGR valve with labour runs €350-600. Some owners choose to blank off the EGR valve, which eliminates the problem but is not emissions-legal in most EU countries and may cause issues at MOT/TUV inspections.

The Peugeot 207 uses an electric power steering (EPS) system that is a documented weak point. Failure typically begins intermittently — the steering becomes heavy for a few seconds, then returns to normal. Over time it worsens into permanent failure. The EPS warning light illuminates, often accompanied by ABS and engine management lights due to the shared CAN bus communication. Repair options include ECU reconditioning (€300-500), replacement of the EPS motor (€500-800), or a complete steering rack replacement at €800-1,200. Independent EPS repair specialists can often rebuild the unit for less than dealer replacement costs.

The 110 hp variant uses a dual mass flywheel (DMF) that can wear out, typically between 100,000-150,000 km. Symptoms include a rattling noise at idle that disappears when the clutch pedal is pressed, vibration through the pedals, and difficulty selecting gears. A DMF and clutch kit replacement costs around €600-1,000 at an independent garage. The 90 hp variant mostly uses a solid flywheel, which is a simpler and more durable design. A solid flywheel conversion kit is available as a more economical long-term alternative to replacing with another DMF.

The 207 uses a 'smart charge' alternator system controlled by the engine management unit, making it more complex than older systems. Common failures include the alternator itself, corroded ground points, and the PWM signal wire degrading. Symptoms include intermittent power loss to electronic systems, battery warning light, and the engine cutting out unexpectedly. A recall was issued for alternator terminal wiring positioned too close to the exhaust heat shield. Alternator replacement costs €300-500, while wiring repairs are typically €100-200. All ground straps between engine, body, and battery should be inspected during servicing.