IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2001 Peugeot 307

The 307 launched in the UK as a larger and more modern replacement for the 306. The BSI unit water damage and head gasket failures on the 1.6 16v became major concerns for UK owners.

What changed for 2001

  • •UK launch of 307 family car
  • •BSI unit prone to water damage
  • •1.6 16v petrol with head gasket issues
  • •Wider range of engines than predecessor

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !BSI water damage causing electrical chaos
  • !Head gasket failure on 1.6 16v
  • !Clutch slave cylinder leaks
5
Known Issues
2
Serious
3
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

Electric Power Steering (EPAS) Failure

SeriousSteering

The EPAS column can fail on the 307, causing heavy or unassisted steering. This is a dangerous fault that typically occurs without much warning.

Est. Repair Cost: £400–£900
Warning Signs:

Heavy steering at low speed, EPS warning light, Steering intermittently unassisted

What to Inspect:
  • Test steering at low speed and during parking
  • Check for EPS warning light
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Head Gasket Failure (1.6 16v)

SeriousEngine

The 1.6 16v petrol engine is known for head gasket failures, leading to coolant loss, overheating and potential engine damage. Prevention through timely coolant changes is key.

Est. Repair Cost: £500–£1,200
Warning Signs:

Overheating, White exhaust smoke, Coolant loss without visible leak, Mayonnaise under oil filler cap

What to Inspect:
  • Check coolant level and condition
  • Look for oil contamination in coolant
  • Test for exhaust gases in coolant system
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

BSI Water Ingress and Electrical Faults

ModerateElectrics & Electronics

The body control module (BSI) located under the scuttle area is vulnerable to water ingress from blocked pollen filter drains, causing erratic electrics including phantom warning lights, wiper faults and starting problems.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£800
Warning Signs:

Phantom dashboard warning lights, Wipers operating randomly, Central locking cycling, Car failing to start

What to Inspect:
  • Check the pollen filter area for dampness
  • Inspect scuttle panel drains
  • Look for corrosion on BSI connector pins
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Clutch Slave Cylinder Leak

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

The concentric clutch slave cylinder can develop internal or external leaks, causing a soft or sinking clutch pedal and eventually making gear changes difficult or impossible.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£500
Warning Signs:

Soft or sinking clutch pedal, Difficulty selecting gears, Fluid leak around the gearbox bellhousing

What to Inspect:
  • Check clutch pedal feel and free play
  • Inspect the gearbox bellhousing for fluid leaks
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

ABS Module Failure

ModerateBrakes

The ABS control module can fail, triggering the ABS warning light and disabling the anti-lock braking system. The module can sometimes be repaired rather than requiring full replacement.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£600
Warning Signs:

ABS warning light on dashboard, ABS function disabled, Traction control warning (if fitted)

What to Inspect:
  • Check for ABS warning light on startup
  • Scan for ABS fault codes
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research Team

Buying Tips for 2001 Peugeot 307

  • ✓Check the BSI fuse box area for signs of water ingress or corrosion
  • ✓On 1.6 16v petrols, watch for head gasket failure symptoms
  • ✓Test all electrics including windows, mirrors and central locking
  • ✓On HDi diesels, check for EGR valve and DPF issues
2002–2004
Check a 2001 Peugeot 307 by Registration