Generations
207 — Peugeot 207
2006–2014
1.4 16v VTi, 1.4 16v VTi, 1.6 16v VTi, 1.6 16v THP 150, 1.6 THP, 1.4 HDi
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Peugeot 207 problems ranked by severity. We track 9 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Timing chain tensioner failure (207)
The hydraulic timing chain tensioner on EP6 and EP6DT engines fails due to inadequate oil pressure or internal wear, causing timing chain slack and potential valve-to-piston contact. This is the most critical fault on these engines and can result in catastrophic engine damage if the chain jumps timing. The issue affects both naturally aspirated EP6 and turbocharged EP6DT variants. Merged from separate expert database entries as both describe the same underlying EP6-family fault. Regular oil changes with correct specification oil are essential for tensioner longevity.
What happens if ignoredIf the tensioner fails completely, the timing chain can jump teeth on the camshaft sprockets, causing the pistons to contact the valves. This results in bent valves, damaged pistons, and requires a complete engine rebuild costing £3,000-£6,000. The car should not be driven if chain rattle is present.
Independent garage
£600–£1,000
Specialist
£800–£1,200
Main dealer
£1,000–£1,500
Parts only
£150–£300
Major
Thermostat housing failure (207)
The plastic thermostat housing on EP3 and EP6 engines develops cracks due to thermal cycling, causing coolant leaks and potential overheating. The housing is integrated with the coolant outlet and water pump connection point. This is a well-documented weakness across the PSA EP engine family, with failures typically occurring between 40,000-100,000 miles as the plastic becomes brittle.
What happens if ignoredContinued driving with a leaking thermostat housing can lead to coolant loss and engine overheating. Severe overheating may cause head gasket failure, requiring repairs costing £800-£1,500. Replace the housing promptly when leaks develop.
Independent garage
£150–£250
Specialist
£200–£300
Main dealer
£250–£350
Parts only
£50–£100
Major
High pressure fuel pump failure (207)
The high pressure fuel pump (HPFP) on EP6DT turbocharged engines fails due to wear of the internal cam follower mechanism, causing insufficient fuel pressure for proper direct injection. This is a common failure mode on PSA's direct injection turbo engines, often related to poor fuel quality or extended service intervals. The pump is driven mechanically from the engine and supplies fuel at up to 200 bar pressure to the injectors.
What happens if ignoredComplete HPFP failure will prevent the engine from starting or cause severe power loss and limp mode operation. Partial failure leads to poor performance, increased fuel consumption, and potential damage to other fuel system components. Replacement is essential for reliable operation.
Independent garage
£400–£700
Specialist
£500–£800
Main dealer
£600–£900
Parts only
£200–£400
Major
Turbo failure (207)
Turbocharger failure affects both the EP6DT petrol turbo and DV4/DV6 diesel engines, typically due to oil starvation, contaminated oil, or bearing wear. The most common failure modes are bearing seizure and wastegate actuator problems. Poor maintenance, particularly extended oil change intervals, accelerates turbo wear. Symptoms include loss of boost pressure, excessive exhaust smoke, and oil consumption.
What happens if ignoredComplete turbo failure results in severe loss of power and may cause engine damage if metal debris enters the combustion chambers. Oil-burning turbos will fail MOT emissions tests. Replacement with a reconditioned unit typically costs £800-£1,500 including labour.
Independent garage
£500–£1,200
Specialist
£600–£1,300
Main dealer
£800–£1,500
Parts only
£300–£800
5 more known issues tracked
Including further major faults, wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems. Check a specific car to see which issues apply to its age and mileage.
Check a Peugeot 207 →MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Peugeot 207 fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 131x the fleet average
Sample: 5,898 tests
Body panel damage
Bodywork · 60-80k miles
MOT failure rate: 33x the fleet average
Sample: 86,057 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 28x the fleet average
Sample: 2,950 tests
ABS fault
Suspension · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 26x the fleet average
Sample: 828 tests
Stop lamp switch with a delay in operation
Lights & Electrics · 100-120k miles
MOT failure rate: 26x the fleet average
Sample: 41,769 tests
Exhaust system damage
Bodywork · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 24x the fleet average
Sample: 18,185 tests
Buying a Peugeot 207?
Check a specific car's service history to see if it's been looked after — franchised dealer records with dates, mileage, and work done.
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Related
Peugeot 207 reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Peugeot 207?
The Peugeot 207 has 9 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Timing chain tensioner failure (207).
Is the Peugeot 207 reliable?
The Peugeot 207 has 1 dangerous and 5 major known issues. Most can be avoided with a thorough pre-purchase check and full service history.
How much does it cost to fix Peugeot 207 problems?
Repair costs range widely. The most significant issue (Timing chain tensioner failure (207)) costs £600–£1,000 at an independent garage. Minor issues can be under £200. Always get a full inspection before buying.