Generations
T75 — RCZ
2009–2015
1.6 THP, 2.0 HDi
Top issues to watch for
The most serious Peugeot Rcz problems ranked by severity. We track 7 known issues — here are the ones you need to know about first.
Dangerous
Structural member fracture (T75)
MOT data shows this model fails for main load-bearing structural member fracture at 16.9 times the fleet average, peaking at 60,000-80,000 miles. The specific location of the structural failure is not detailed in MOT records but appears to affect both engine variants. This represents a significant safety concern as structural integrity failure can affect crash protection and vehicle stability. The improving trend suggests later production years may be less affected.
What happens if ignoredStructural member fracture poses a direct safety risk and the vehicle should not be driven. It can affect crash protection, suspension geometry, and overall vehicle stability. Professional structural assessment and potential bodyshell repair are required, which may be uneconomical on older vehicles.
Specialist
£2,000–£5,000
Main dealer
£3,000–£8,000
Parts only
£500–£2,000
Major
Timing chain failure (T75)
The EP6DT 1.6 THP engine uses a timing chain that stretches prematurely, particularly when oil change intervals are extended beyond 6,000 miles. The chain tensioner cannot compensate for excessive stretch, leading to timing chain rattle and eventually complete failure. This is exacerbated by the high-pressure turbo application which puts additional stress on the timing system. Early examples are most affected, with the problem being well-documented among Peugeot specialists.
What happens if ignoredComplete timing chain failure destroys the interference engine, requiring full engine rebuild or replacement. Even stretched chains cause poor performance, increased fuel consumption, and potential valve timing issues. Early intervention with chain replacement prevents catastrophic engine failure.
Independent garage
£600–£1,200
Specialist
£800–£1,500
Main dealer
£1,200–£2,000
Parts only
£200–£400
Major
Turbo failure (T75)
The EP6DT turbocharger suffers from actuator failure and bearing wear, particularly when oil change intervals are extended or the air filter becomes contaminated. Loss of boost pressure results in significant performance reduction and increased exhaust smoke. The turbo actuator is a common failure point, often failing before the main turbo assembly requires replacement.
What happens if ignoredComplete turbo failure results in severe power loss and potential engine damage from oil starvation or debris ingestion. Actuator failure alone can often be repaired without full turbo replacement, but seal failure typically requires turbo rebuild or replacement.
Independent garage
£600–£1,200
Specialist
£800–£1,500
Main dealer
£1,200–£1,800
Parts only
£400–£800
Major
Excessive exhaust smoke (T75)
MOT data shows the 1.6 THP petrol engine fails for excessive blue or black smoke at 54.6 times the fleet average, peaking at 40,000-60,000 miles. This indicates oil consumption through worn valve stem seals, turbo seals, or piston rings. The worsening trend suggests this is an ongoing reliability issue with the EP6DT engine family. Blue smoke indicates oil burning, while black smoke suggests overfuelling or turbo issues.
What happens if ignoredExcessive oil consumption leads to engine damage if oil levels drop critically. Worn valve stem seals or turbo seals require significant engine work to repair. Cars failing MOT for excessive smoke cannot be legally driven until repaired.
Independent garage
£500–£1,500
Specialist
£800–£2,000
Main dealer
£1,200–£2,500
Parts only
£200–£600
3 more known issues tracked
Including wear items, electrical niggles, and generation-specific problems.
MOT failure hotspots
Based on DVSA MOT test data. These are the items where the Peugeot Rcz fails at a significantly higher rate than the average car.
Emissions failure
Exhaust & Emissions · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 55x the fleet average
Sample: 1,556 tests
Stop lamp with a multiple light source up to 1/...
Lights & Electrics · 0-20k miles
MOT failure rate: 52x the fleet average
Sample: 994 tests
Headlight fault
Lights & Electrics · 20-40k miles
MOT failure rate: 24x the fleet average
Sample: 9,216 tests
Main load-bearing structural member fractured o...
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 17x the fleet average
Sample: 5,980 tests
Brake hoses perished or damaged
Brakes · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 12x the fleet average
Sample: 5,279 tests
Structural corrosion
Bodywork · 40-60k miles
MOT failure rate: 12x the fleet average
Sample: 14,624 tests
Looking at a specific Peugeot Rcz?
Check its dealer service history to see if the maintenance that prevents these problems was actually done.
£6.99 · Full refund if no records found
Related
Peugeot Rcz reliability FAQs
What are the most common problems with the Peugeot Rcz?
The Peugeot Rcz has 7 known issues across 3 severity levels. The most serious are: Structural member fracture (T75).
Is the Peugeot Rcz reliable?
The Peugeot Rcz has 1 dangerous and 4 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 Rcz problems?
Costs vary by issue. Independent garages are typically 30-50% cheaper than main dealers for most repairs.