Peugeot 207 Common Problems & Reliability
A popular supermini that replaced the 206. Most mechanicals are sound, but the EPAS steering column and Prince-engine timing chains are serious concerns. Diesel models need careful DPF and EGR attention.
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Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.
Most Common Peugeot 207 Faults & Repair Costs
Electric Power Steering (EPAS) Column Failure
The EPAS column is the single biggest reliability concern on the 207. It can fail without warning, causing sudden heavy steering. Some cars have had multiple column replacements under warranty.
Sudden heavy steering, EPS warning light, Steering intermittently unassisted
- Test steering at very low speed and during parking manoeuvres
- Check for EPS warning light on startup and while driving
VTi Timing Chain Stretch (Prince Engine)
The 1.4 VTi and 1.6 VTi Prince engines suffer from timing chain stretch and tensioner failure, leading to chain rattle on cold start, rough running and potentially catastrophic engine damage if the chain jumps.
Rattle on cold start, Engine management light, Rough idle or misfire, Loss of power
- Start the engine from cold and listen for rattling
- Look for timing chain invoices
- Check oil change history
EGR Valve Sticking (1.6 HDi)
The exhaust gas recirculation valve on the 1.6 HDi diesel can stick open or closed, causing rough idle, poor performance and excessive emissions. Carbon build-up is the main cause.
Rough idle, Loss of power, Engine management light, Excessive black smoke
- Scan for EGR-related fault codes
- Check for EGR replacement invoices
Headlight Lens UV Clouding
The polycarbonate headlight lenses deteriorate and cloud with UV exposure, reducing light output and failing MOTs. Replacement headlight units are expensive.
Cloudy or yellowed headlight lenses, Reduced night-time visibility, MOT failure on light output
- Inspect both headlights for clouding or hazing
- Check MOT history for headlight-related advisories
DPF Clogging (1.6 HDi Short Trips)
The diesel particulate filter on the 1.6 HDi clogs quickly on short urban journeys, triggering limp mode, excessive fuel consumption and eventually requiring forced regeneration or removal.
Anti-pollution warning light, Limp mode, Cooling fan running after shutdown
- Ask about typical journey types
- Check for DPF cleaning or forced-regen invoices
Buying a used Peugeot 207? Always check for hidden finance and write-off history.
Mechanical problems are only half the battle. Over 1 in 3 UK used cars checked have unpaid finance or accident write-off records that could cause you to lose the car or thousands in value.