The Peugeot 406, a staple of late 90s and early 2000s motoring, enjoys a reputation for comfort, reliability (in certain configurations), and affordability. However, like any car with a production run spanning nearly a decade, some model years and engine options proved more robust than others. This guide aims to navigate the complexities of the 406 range, helping you identify the best years to buy and which ones to potentially avoid.
This information is crucial for prospective buyers looking for a dependable used car, as well as current owners seeking to understand the strengths and weaknesses of their particular 406 model. Armed with this knowledge, you can make an informed decision and potentially save yourself from costly repairs down the line.
| Model Year | Notable Features/Engines | Potential Issues/Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 1995-1999 (Phase 1) | 2.0L petrol engines (especially 8-valve), 1.9TD diesel, generally simpler electronics | Early models prone to rust (especially around arches), 1.8L petrol engine underpowered, some electrical gremlins |
| 1999-2004 (Phase 2) | Improved build quality, updated styling, introduction of HDi diesel engines, 2.2HDi | More complex electronics, potential for particulate filter (FAP) issues on later HDi models, some reports of clutch issues on HDi models |
| 2000-2004 (Coupe) | Pininfarina-designed styling, generally higher specification, available with V6 petrol and HDi diesel engines | Higher purchase price, potential for higher running costs (V6), potential for bodywork issues due to complex design |
| Specific Engines: 2.0 8V Petrol | Simple, reliable, easy to maintain | Not the most powerful or refined |
| Specific Engines: 1.9TD Diesel | Robust, fuel-efficient, mechanically simple | Can be noisy and unrefined compared to later HDi engines |
| Specific Engines: 2.0 HDi Diesel | Good balance of performance and economy, relatively reliable | Potential for injector issues, diesel particulate filter (FAP) problems on later models |
| Specific Engines: 2.2 HDi Diesel | More powerful than 2.0 HDi, refined | More complex and potentially more expensive to repair than 2.0 HDi |
| Specific Engines: V6 Petrol | Smooth, powerful, luxurious | Higher fuel consumption, potentially more expensive maintenance |
| Automatic Transmission | Generally reliable, but regular fluid changes are essential | Can feel sluggish compared to manual, potential for torque converter issues in neglected examples |
| Rust Prone Areas | Wheel arches, sills, underbody | Thorough inspection is crucial before purchase, especially on pre-2000 models |
| Electrical Issues | Central locking, electric windows, dashboard displays | Check all electrical functions thoroughly, potential for wiring harness problems |
Detailed Explanations
1995-1999 (Phase 1): These were the initial production years of the Peugeot 406. They are characterized by a more angular design compared to the later models. The 2.0L petrol engines, especially the 8-valve versions, and the 1.9TD diesel are known for their reliability and simplicity. These early models generally feature simpler electronics, which can be a positive in terms of fewer potential failure points. However, they are also more prone to rust, particularly around the wheel arches and sills. The 1.8L petrol engine is often considered underpowered for the size of the car.
1999-2004 (Phase 2): This facelifted version of the 406 brought updated styling, improved build quality in some areas, and the introduction of the more advanced HDi diesel engines. The HDi engines offered a better balance of performance and fuel economy compared to the older TD engines. However, the Phase 2 models also feature more complex electronics, which can be a source of potential issues. Later HDi models might be equipped with a diesel particulate filter (FAP), which can be prone to clogging and require expensive replacement.
2000-2004 (Coupe): The Peugeot 406 Coupe, designed by Pininfarina, is a visually stunning car that stands apart from the saloon and estate versions. It generally came with a higher specification and was available with the V6 petrol engine and HDi diesel engines. While admired for its aesthetics, the Coupe can be more expensive to purchase and maintain. The complex bodywork can also be susceptible to damage and repairs can be costly.
Specific Engines: 2.0 8V Petrol: This engine is known for its simplicity and reliability. It's relatively easy to maintain and parts are readily available. However, it's not the most powerful or refined engine option, and performance can feel adequate rather than exciting.
Specific Engines: 1.9TD Diesel: This is a robust and fuel-efficient diesel engine. It's mechanically simple, making it relatively easy to repair. However, it can be noisy and unrefined compared to the later HDi engines.
Specific Engines: 2.0 HDi Diesel: The 2.0 HDi engine offers a good balance of performance and economy. It's generally considered a reliable engine, although injector issues can occur. Later models with a diesel particulate filter (FAP) can experience clogging problems.
Specific Engines: 2.2 HDi Diesel: This engine provides more power than the 2.0 HDi. It's also more refined, offering a smoother driving experience. However, it's a more complex engine and repairs can potentially be more expensive.
Specific Engines: V6 Petrol: The V6 petrol engine offers a smooth and powerful driving experience. It's a luxurious option, but it comes with higher fuel consumption. Maintenance costs can also be higher compared to the smaller engines.
Automatic Transmission: The automatic transmission in the 406 is generally reliable if properly maintained. Regular fluid changes are essential to prevent problems. However, it can feel sluggish compared to the manual transmission, and neglected examples may suffer from torque converter issues.
Rust Prone Areas: Rust is a common issue on older Peugeot 406 models. The wheel arches, sills, and underbody are particularly susceptible. A thorough inspection for rust is crucial before purchasing a 406, especially pre-2000 models.
Electrical Issues: Electrical problems can occur in the Peugeot 406, particularly with the central locking, electric windows, and dashboard displays. Check all electrical functions thoroughly before purchase. Wiring harness problems can also be a potential issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Peugeot 406 is the most reliable? Generally, the Phase 1 models with the 2.0 8V petrol engine and the 1.9TD diesel are considered the most reliable due to their simplicity.
Are the HDi diesel engines reliable? The 2.0 HDi is generally reliable, but later models with a diesel particulate filter (FAP) can experience clogging issues.
Is the Peugeot 406 prone to rust? Yes, particularly early models (pre-2000). Check the wheel arches, sills, and underbody carefully.
Are spare parts readily available for the 406? Yes, spare parts are generally readily available and affordable, especially for the more common engine options.
Is the Peugeot 406 a good first car? It can be a good first car due to its affordability and comfortable ride, but be mindful of potential maintenance costs, especially on older models.
Are automatic transmissions reliable in Peugeot 406? Yes, when properly maintained. Regular fluid changes are crucial to prevent problems.
What is the FAP and why is it important? FAP stands for Filtre à Particules (Diesel Particulate Filter). It's designed to reduce emissions, but can clog and require expensive replacement.
Is the 406 Coupe more expensive to maintain? Yes, due to its complex bodywork and potentially higher-spec engines, the Coupe can be more expensive to maintain.
Conclusion
The Peugeot 406 offers a comfortable and affordable driving experience, especially the models with the 2.0 8V petrol engine and the 1.9TD diesel engine. When looking for a used 406, pay close attention to rust and electrical issues, and consider the potential maintenance costs associated with the more complex engine options.