IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2007 Peugeot 407

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2007 Peugeot 407. 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

2.0 HDi / 1.6 HDi DPF and Eolys Additive Depletion

SeriousExhaust & Emissions

PSA's FAP diesel particulate filter system relies on a cerium-based additive fluid (Eolys) stored in a reservoir near the fuel tank, injected automatically during refueling to lower DPF regeneration temperature. In cars used predominantly for short urban trips, DPF regeneration fails to complete, causing soot blockage. Furthermore, once the Eolys fluid depletes (typically around 70,000–80,000 miles), the ECU triggers a persistent 'Depollution System Fault' and limp-home mode.

Est. Repair Cost: £300–£800
Warning Signs:

'Depollution System Fault' warning message on centre multi-function screen, Engine management light illuminated and car restricted to limp-home mode, Loss of power and sluggish acceleration under load, Increased exhaust smoke during failed regeneration attempts

What to Inspect:
  • Scan vehicle OBD-II port for stored fault codes relating to differential exhaust pressure or additive level (e.g. P1447, P2408)
  • Verify the engine revs freely above 3,000 rpm under load without entering limp mode
  • Check maintenance history to confirm Eolys additive fluid replenishment and DPF cleaning
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Front Double-Wishbone Swivel Ball Joint Wear

ModerateSuspension & Chassis

The 407 employs a decoupled pivot double-wishbone front suspension system that relies on upper and lower swivel pivot pins fitted into spherical ball joints on each hub. Due to the vehicle's heavy front kerb weight and harsh UK road surfaces, the lower hub swivel ball joints experience severe wear and play, often by 50,000 miles. Symptoms include heavy clunking or knocking noises over speed cushions, steering wander on motorways, rapid inner front tyre wear, and frequent MOT test rejections.

Est. Repair Cost: £200–£450
Warning Signs:

Loud knocking or clunking from front wheels over minor road imperfections, Wandering steering feel and reduced straight-line stability on motorways, Heavy wear or scrubbing on the inner shoulders of both front tyres, MOT failure for excessive play in front suspension swivel ball joint

What to Inspect:
  • Drive over speed bumps or rough urban tarmac and listen carefully for front-end metallic knocks
  • Jack up front wheels and rock each wheel firmly at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions to detect play in the lower swivel pin
  • Inspect inner shoulders of front tyres for excessive rubber wear compared to outer tread
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Dual-Zone Climate Control Heater Flap Shaft Fracture

ModerateInterior & Trim

Dual-zone climate control models suffer from a notorious flaw where the internal plastic drive shaft connecting the temperature blend door to the electric stepper motor snaps inside the heater casing. When the shaft shears, the blend door drops and jams into position, usually resulting in freezing cold air blowing continuously onto the driver while hot air blows on the passenger, or vice versa. Proper repair traditionally required complete dashboard removal and an expensive heater casing replacement.

Est. Repair Cost: £350–£900
Warning Signs:

Driver side blowing ice-cold air while passenger side blows boiling hot (or vice versa), Temperature adjustment buttons change displayed digits but air temperature remains fixed, Clicking or whirring noise from behind centre console when adjusting temperature dials, Inability to demist cabin effectively in damp or winter conditions

What to Inspect:
  • Set driver temperature to minimum and passenger to maximum, feel airflow from face vents, then reverse the settings and confirm temperature changes promptly on both sides
  • Listen for clicking sounds behind the dashboard when adjusting temperature
  • Check service history to see if modified heater flap repair kits have been installed
Verified by IsItAGoodCar Research TeamUpdated

Buying Tips for 2007 Peugeot 407

  • Listen for harsh knocking from the front suspension over low-speed bumps; front lower swivel hub pivot ball joints are notorious for premature wear
  • Test the dual-zone climate control thoroughly on both sides; broken internal blend flaps will result in hot air blowing on one side and cold on the other
  • Scan the vehicle computer for Depollution System Fault messages indicating DPF soot saturation, EGR valve clogging, or depleted Eolys additive fluid
  • Inspect the power steering reservoir and electro-hydraulic pump for frothing fluid or leaks, which cause heavy or notchy steering feel
  • Examine SW estate models for panoramic glass roof shade blind jamming and tailgate split-glass window release switch failure