Thinking about buying a used Peugeot 207 (2006–2014) in New Zealand? We've documented 8 known faults for this model spanning engine, electrical, fluid leaks, and cooling. Each researched and verified before it's published. The most serious issues here are rated critical. Two are set out in full below — the rest, with the symptoms, repair costs and checks for each, are free with an account.
8
Documented faults
Critical
Most serious
$600–$1,800
Typical repair
5
Systems covered
Known Peugeot 207 faults
Every fault below is documented specifically for this model — researched and verified before it’s published.
01EP6 1.6 THP Timing Chain Stretch and Tensioner Failure
CriticalVery commonEngine $2,500–$6,000 to fix
The 207's 1.6 THP engine (PSA/BMW Prince EP6) has extensively documented timing chain elongation caused by a failing plastic tensioner guide. The chain can skip teeth and contact valves, bending them and requiring head replacement or full engine rebuild. The fault was the subject of a French class action and widespread international consumer complaints. Oil service discipline is critical — this engine will tolerate neither extended intervals nor incorrect oil grade.
Symptoms to notice
Rattling or whirring from front of engine on cold start, typically disappearing after warm-up
Check engine light with camshaft/crankshaft correlation codes (P0016, P0017)
Engine misfires or rough idle
Sudden engine failure without prior warning if chain jumps timing
What to check
Cold-start listen is essential — do not skip this step. Check for rattle in first 30 seconds. Request oil service history with mileage stamps — 5W-30 full synthetic mandatory, 10,000 km maximum interval. Scan for P0016/P0017 codes. Any 207 THP with unclear history should be budgeted for immediate chain replacement.
Where to look: Front of engine behind the timing chain cover
Ask the seller
“Can you show complete service history with oil change intervals and mileage?”
“Has the timing chain or guides ever been replaced?”
“Has the engine ever rattled on startup or shown warning lights?”
02Rear Trailing Arm Bush Wear
MinorVery commonSuspension $300–$800 to fix
The 207's torsion beam rear axle trailing arm pivot bushes deteriorate with age, causing knocking over bumps, uneven rear tyre wear, and failed WoF alignment checks. NZ and AU road conditions accelerate degradation. Replacement is straightforward but requires a press; many owners defer the job until tyre wear forces the issue.
Symptoms to notice
Knocking from rear axle over speed bumps or rough surfaces
Uneven or inside-edge rear tyre wear
Failed WoF wheel alignment check at rear axle
What to check
Visually inspect trailing arm pivot bushes for cracking or collapse. Examine rear tyre wear pattern for toe variation. If a workshop inspection is possible: With vehicle on a hoist, grip trailing arm and attempt to move — any bush movement visible is a fail.
Where to look: Rear torsion beam trailing arm pivot bushes, both sides
Ask the seller
“Have the rear suspension bushes been replaced?”
“Any knocking sounds from the rear?”
“When was the last wheel alignment?”
EngineCritical
ElectricalMajor
EngineMajor
Fluid LeaksMajor
EngineMajor
CoolingMajor
6 more documented faults on the Peugeot 207
Symptoms, what to check, where to look and what to ask the seller — for every fault above. Free with an account, no card needed. One account covers one vehicle, so make it the car you’re actually looking at.
This page covers the model. Enter the plate of the actual car you’re looking at and see its year, engine, safety rating and register flags — free, no account needed.
Like any used car, it depends on the specific example and its service history. Across the 8 documented faults for the Peugeot 207, the recurring problem areas are engine, electrical, and fluid leaks. A Peugeot 207 with a full service history and no signs of the issues listed on this page can be a sound buy but each one needs to be checked individually before you commit.
What are the most common problems with a used Peugeot 207?
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We've catalogued 8 known faults for the Peugeot 207, covering engine, electrical, and fluid leaks. Two are written out in full on this page. The rest — with the symptoms to notice, what to inspect, and typical repair costs for each — are free once you create an account.
How much do repairs cost on a Peugeot 207?
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Most single repairs on the Peugeot 207 fall between $600–$1,800 at NZ independent-workshop rates. Some of the 8 documented faults cost less and a few cost considerably more, and no one car needs them all. Knowing which ones to look for before you view is what lets you negotiate the price down or walk away.
Should I get a pre-purchase inspection on a Peugeot 207?
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Yes. A Peugeot 207 inspection focused on its known weak points is the single best way to avoid an expensive mistake. KickTyres gives you a guided, model-specific inspection plus a market valuation and negotiation figure for $17.90 far less than the cost of missing one of the faults on this page.