Peugeot - a French car brand with many great classic car models that we discuss in text and pictures. We also have experience, tips and advice with regard to newer models.
When the Peugeot 205 GTi was launched in 1984, it was considered by many to be one of the best GTi cars – based on its light weight and good driving dynamics. Now Peugeot is renewing the concept with the E-208 GTi, and is immodest enough to draw parallels to the 205 GTi. I hope this is good news for those of us who experienced the legendary model.
Judging by the pictures, I'm pretty sure the E-208 GTi will be a success in the market regardless of what older car enthusiasts might think. But it would be incredibly fun if the designers at Peugeot Sport really succeeds in carrying on the soul of the successful 205 GTi.
Is there a reason why no automaker has yet launched an electric GTi? First, regular electric cars are more than fast enough for today's roads. Second, the level of equipment is lavish even on affordable cars. Putting the standard car in "Sport" mode transforms it into a sports car.
Or?
It is here. a dedicated GTi concept could come into its own. To carry the weight, today's best-selling electric cars are built on reinforced chassis that suit tall, heavy cars. However, the weight is easily felt during active driving. This is a challenge Peugeot Sport must have faced during the development of its new GTi model.
Peugeot E-208 GTi
Here is the Peugeot E-208 GTi
The Peugeot E-208 GTi gets an electric motor with 280 hp and a torque of 345 Nm with traction on the front wheels. The stated acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is 5,7 seconds. Other factors that contribute to driving pleasure are differential lock, reinforced brakes, rear stabilizer bar, lowered by 30 mm, extended track width 56 mm at the front and 27 mm at the rear – compared to standard models. Driving pleasure is also that it should be possible to choose a driving program where ESP allows greater excesses for track driving.
Lightweight feel
An important feature of the original Peugeot 205 GTi was its light weight. The kerb weight of cars with a 1.6-litre engine was an incredible 848 kg – cars with a 1.9-litre engine were 910 kg. Driving a lightweight with a low centre of gravity and a responsive engine is a very important part of the GTi concept. This allows you to quickly adjust and correct the car when you drive a little too actively. That was possible with the 205 GTi.
It will be interesting to see if Peugeot Sport can recreate the lightweight feel of its new GTi. In comparison, the new electric Mini SE JCW Drives very sporty without feeling the weight of the battery pressing in. The Mini's curb weight is 1658 kg, which Peugeot can match considering that today's 208 GT only weighs just under 1500 kg.
The standard tires will be Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 on 18 inch rims that are perhaps a bit reminiscent of the Speedline rims on the 205 GTi?
A visual GTi
What was the first thing you noticed when you got into the Peugeot 205 GTi for the first time? Was it the steering wheel? The seats? The sitting position? Yes – all the answers are good. What jeg The first thing I noticed was the red floor covering that matched the car's black exterior so well. And of course, the new E-208 GTi also comes with red floor covering. The sporty impression is enhanced by the steering wheel and interior being kept in Alcantara.
Extensive use of Alcantara in the interior and (of course) red floor mats.The interior as it was when the first Peugeot 205 GTi arrived.
Externally, the E-208 GTi will be recognizable by its widened wheel arches, a distinctive spoiler lip and roof spoiler. The model will feature brand new 18-inch wheels inspired by the original SpeedlinesInside, you can clearly see the red-painted brake calipers on the inside.
Range
The battery pack is said to have a capacity of 54 kWh and should be able to provide a range (WLTP combined) of 350 km. The cars will have the option of V2L, where the car's battery can be used as a power source for external purposes.
Peugeot 205 1.6 GTi with Speedline rims.
Peugeot 205 GTi today
In the fall of 1984, a Peugeot 205 GTi cost 105000 kroner. These cars still have many enthusiasts on the continent and in France. Nut-and-bolt restored cars sell for €30000 – 35000. Regular nice cars around €20000. These are classics that will increase in value. During the launch of the new E-208 GTi, Peugeot is using its old legend to promote the new model. It’s all about “taste and comfort” – and age.
Some like the mother, others like the daughter 🙂
Peugeot 205 1.6 GTi with original Pepper Pot rims.Peugeot 205 1.9 GTi
D-Day military Jeep.Dodge 3/4 ton 4×4DKW WW2 Ordnance Motorcycle.GMC 6×6
Military vehicles are for special interest. As a former wagon driver in the military, it brings back good memories when I come across a Gems, Kvarting or Valp. I myself started with a GMC 6×6 and ended up as a truck driver on a Scania hook truck. Here is a photo series of vintage French military vehicles.
Peugeot P4 "Geländewagen"
Peugeot P4 "Geländerwagen".
Peugeot P4
Peugeot P4
From 1981 to 2019, the "Geländewagen" was in active service in the French military. The French variant was built in France to the same specifications as the Austrian cars Steyr-Daimler-Puch, but equipped with engines and gearboxes from Peugeot. The first ones got engines from the Peugeot 504 and gearboxes from the Peugeot 604.
Citroën Traction Avant
This Citroen Traction Avant was part of the liberation celebrations.
Elegant details.Pre-war model that was useful during the war.
Before the war was Citroën Traction Avant used as police cars in several countries. Among other things, the police chamber in Oslo is said to have been delivered several Citroen 11 Sport in 1937. These cars were probably also in service during the war - and not least during the liberation. In France, commemorations are organized for D-Day and the liberation. The Citroen in the pictures above has been used in several local celebrations, including the liberation of Perpignan - but I don't know if it was actually in use as a service car at the historical times. Anyway, it's an authentic 1930s car with wartime headlights.
Renault R2087 Gôelette
Renault Goelette Militaire.
After the war, it was decided that the French military should be equipped with vehicles produced in France. Heavy trucks were built by Citroen, while Renault was commissioned to build light trucks. From the 1950s, Renault R2087 delivered, based on Gôelette with 4×4 and approximately 1000 kg payload, 2.2 liter side-vented petrol engines taken from civilian Gôelette series. These cars were well suited to transporting personnel and material into the field.
Pin-up motif on WW2 Jeep.
Lac de Palau del Vidre
ACMAT VT4
Source: Wikimedia/Futurhit12 (Link)Ford Everest II (Source: FavCars.com)
As of 2019, this vehicle was deployed as the successor to the G-Wagen-based Peugeot P4. VT4 – Tactic vehicle 4X4 - is a modified variant of American Ford Everest II produced at the ACMAT factory in Saint-Nazaire, France – a factory that previously produced trucks for Renault. The engines in the VT4 produce 220 hp and can run on degraded fuel qualities. The cars can withstand airdrops and accommodate 5 people - 4 in combat equipment.
See
Renault GoeletteCitroen Traction AvantTracked vehicles on the Ford D series
French used cars will never be a favorite among Norwegian car buyers. The Peugeot 208 is no exception, but can still be a good buy.
Good price as used
There are both good and bad sides to the cars - which we will return to - but the biggest advantage is the prices. French cars are not particularly popular on the Norwegian used car market, which is reflected in the prices. A quick look at cars for sale in Norway and France gives me the impression that prices are actually lower in Norway than in France. The Peugeot 208 at approximately NOK 100 can therefore be a favorable purchase.
Model history
The Peugeot 208 - model 1 - was produced from spring 2012 to summer 2019. The 2016 model received a facelift with, among other things, changes to the front, a wider grill, new rear lights that illustrate the claws of a feline, a new dashboard and a stronger diesel engine. As a facelift often also involves corrections of hidden defects, you should choose the facelift model if you can.
A rather small steering wheel
Peugeot 208 1,2 82HK (before facelift) The drive is not quite in the same class as the VW Polo 1,2 TSI. But the 208 provides extremely good use of space and good comfort. A car that fulfills many transport needs.
About the petrol engines
Leaving aside the GTI edition, the 208 was delivered with advanced 3-cylinder VTi engines (Variable valve timing and injection) which are also referred to as PureTech. The motors provide low consumption and a nice noise profile, but unfortunately have a serious design flaw (1) which started appearing a few years ago. The engines are designed so that the timing belt spins in hot engine oil - not in a dry timing compartment. It reduces internal friction in the engine, but unfortunately it turned out that the belts could not withstand the oil and began to crumble so that the intake to the oil pump could clog. The fault could also result in a loss of servo power to the brakes. As a result, Peugeot has shortened the intervals for changing the timing belt from 180 km and 000 years to 10 and 100 years, - as well as recommended oil changes every year. The French car magazine Argus discovered that timing belts produced from 2017 are not as dissolvable as the old ones, but still cannot be renewed. A factor which also exacerbates the problem is that several people have experienced that the French manufacturer and the Norwegian importer take a restrictive and partly arrogant line towards affected owners.
The engines in question are 1,0 68 hp, 1,2 82 hp and 1,2 110 hp.
About the diesel engines
The HDI, e-HDI and BlueHDI diesel engines are widely used in PSA's model range. They belong to the DV6 family of engines which previously had problems with carbon deposits, but these were resolved well before the Peugeot 208 went into production. The 1,4 liter/68 hp and 1,6 liter/92 hp diesel engines are probably the most reliable options. The facelift version received an upgraded BlueHDI 1,6 engine with 100 hp. Although diesel is not particularly popular at the moment, the 100-horsepower engine appears to be the safest engine option.
2019 Peugeot 208 with rear lights shaped like cat's claws.
Gearboxes
I have only driven the Peugeot 208 with 5-speed manual gearboxes. These are a bit "truck-like" where you have to allow the gears in the box to fall into place before moving the lever into gear. There is no "click-clack" gearbox. The 6-speed gearboxes are supposed to shift faster. As for automatic transmissions, you could get cars with robotic gear changes (ETG5) up to and including the 2015 model. After the facelift, the robotic cash register was replaced with a conventional automatic cash register from Aisin (EAT6). I can confirm that the gearbox is a good choice if you prefer an automatic. Cars with the robotic gearbox ETG5 are not recommended. It has caused trouble for many owners.
Known issues
The Peugeot 208 was produced at two factories in France and one in Slovakia. In recent years, Norway received cars from Trnava in Slovakia. If you find a "T" in position 11 of the VIN number, it is a Slovakian car. It is common for car models to have several recalls. The Peugeot 208 has had several, and some of the faults have been able to create serious and sometimes spectacular situations - such as vital components coming loose, such as the rear axle, parts of the front wheel suspension, the steering stem or the rear spoiler. A problem associated with Slovak cars was that the bonnet lock could come loose, which could cause the bonnet to fold around the windscreen at speed. Keep in mind that these recalls only apply to a limited selection of cars produced in short time intervals and are likely to be fixed without concern for new owners.
A mistake you should worry about, is that the infotainment screen has tended to die. It can be expensive to replace.
Source: FavCars.com
Life with the Peugeot 208
For several weeks we have been allowed to borrow a Peugeot 208 from a good friend in France. The car is a 2019 model equipped with a 1,2 liter PureTech engine with 82 hp and manual 5-speed gearbox. The level of equipment is "Signature" with, among other things, glossy mirror housings, parking warnings and a navigation system. You sit well in the seats. I found a fairly high and upright sitting position where I could comfortably see the instruments above the steering wheel. On paper, the interior space conditions are the same as in the competitors, but a few years ago we transported a kitchen table and a narrow coffee table together with 2 passengers in another Peugeot 208. I don't understand how we managed it, but the 208 is without a doubt a small space wonder .
When you take over the car for the first time, you notice that the clutch throttle takes some getting used to so that the engine does not limp and stop - or rev up. Normally I let the clutch take hold before I follow up with gas, but on the 208 you have to have a little gas before you let the clutch take hold. I have also noticed it on other models with the PureTech engine. The engine needs a few extra revs above idle to get going.
On the road
The suspension is comfortable for a small car - without rocking and dove as French cars often do. We have driven some really "crappy" sections of road where the car floats surprisingly well. What kept me going was the sound of the undercarriage working. The 82-horsepower engine normally works in a nice and warm soundscape, but when you push the engine, the sound and vibrations from the three-cylinder engine propagate well into the passenger compartment.
Checklist
Of course, buying a 10-year-old Peugeot 208 requires more general research than choosing a 2019 model. I only mention what is specific to the Peugeot 208.
For cars with petrol engines 1,0 and 1,2 litres:
Ask the owner if the car has gone into emergency mode recently. When the oil filter for the oil pump clogs, exactly that can happen.
Find out when the timing belt was changed. New change intervals are 100 km or 000 years. I have found several advertisements on Finn.no where the seller refers to old shift intervals. If the new intervals are exceeded, the risk of having to dismantle the bottom pan, drain and clean the oil strainer increases. In that case, choose another car.
If the timing belt has not been changed recently, you should have it checked at an independent workshop or dealer. They use a special key that they stick down through the oil filler cap to check the width of the belt. One sign of crumbling is that it swells out.
It is a good sign if the owner has at one point or another chosen to change the oil every year on the advice of dealers.
For all engine options:
The service booklet is extremely important for this model. Even if not all services are taken from a brand dealer, it is important that some services are taken there. The dealer system can follow up errors that are not conveyed through other channels.
During the test drive, have the person next to you press a lot on the infotainment screen. Check that it works just as well after the trip when it is warm.
Conclusion
Do you think there was a lot of negative information? In terms of quality, the Peugeot 208 is considered a big step forward compared to its predecessor, the 207. It is worth noting that the car's biggest weaknesses are shared with several other popular models in the PSA group. We have seen that Volkswagen has also struggled with construction problems (1) in their engines. The Peugeot 208 has no particular weaknesses and is not particularly prone to rust either. The biggest advantage is the price. If you find a facelifted car with low mileage and take care of the maintenance, you can get cheap car maintenance for many years.
(1) Regarding the term "construction defect"
It is perhaps a bit harsh to use this expression. Within various branches of engineering, the expression "Fault by design" is used, i.e. an error that occurs because all aspects of the design have not been adequately considered, but which does not have to prevent the object from performing its main function.
See
The timing belt in oil ended up in pure hogwashBuying a used car without technical knowledgeA rather small steering wheel
Céret is one of many villages in the Catalan part of France where cobbled streets with picturesque stone houses still exist. At the beginning of the 1900th century, the city was a meeting place for artists. From our shepherd's hut, we can see into the old garden where Pablo Picasso and George Braque held merry parties 100 years ago - where Salvador Dali was also present.
Céret is located in a very rural setting at the foot of the Pyrenees - very close to the border with Spain. The nearest big city is Barcelona. The city is very far from Paris and the Côte d'Azur - in a positive way. It is not expensive to visit the restaurants, everyone speaks French and there are cars here that you cannot find in the Côte d'Azur. Now there is no longer a 2CV or Renault 4 on it each street corner in Céret. But since we are in an area where cars do not rust, there are still many cars such as Renault 5, Express, Citroen C15, Renault Twingo mk 1 and Peugeot 205 on the roads. These are cars that are almost extinct in other parts of Europe, but here they are common. In 5 years they may be gone for good.
Citroen
Citroen BX Millesime TD
The car in the main picture above belongs in Céret. It is a Millesime edition that appeared in recent years in production with a nice equipment package. The equipment level with, among other things, a rear spoiler is supplemented by yellow lights, integrated fog lights, black signs and a sunroof. The sunroof gives the car character. According to the owner, the panoramic roof is taken from a Twingo. The car has recently been fixed up after an injury and is often on the move in the city with the owner behind the wheel. If you are on Instagram, you can follow him under his username pali_kao.
Citroen Ami 9A and 2CV
I don't think the new electric Ami is sold in Norway. It is also not a big sales hit in our part of France. The car pictured is actually the only one I've seen in town. I think it's a shame that it is only made as moped car. If it had been built as a 4-wheel motorcycle (quadricycle lourd), it could be registered in vehicle class L7e. If the car could go faster than 45 km/h, you could follow normal traffic flow. Then I think it would be better received in the market. The reason I took a picture of it is because of the nice 2CV patina it has - just like the great 2CV on the right.
Lemon Xantia
I forgot to mention that the Citroen Xantia is one of the car models that is still current and drivable here. The car in the picture above belongs to the first series of Xantia. I have passed it several times and have noticed how great it is. For being BX's successor, Xantia seems less distinctive - more "mainstream". But if you get hold of a Xantia with Active Suspension, you have a wolf in sheep's clothing on the road.
Many Citroen 2CVs have been in continuous operation since they were new.Renault 4 GTL
Renault
Renault Espace
Let's forget the 2CV and the R4s for a while. Although there are fewer of them, they still exist. I am particularly impressed by the 2CV and R4 that are still in daily use, like the one parked in front of us at one of the city's supermarkets. I would rather focus on the image of Espace from the first series. This is a model that was designed by Matra – a name that arouses enthusiasm in many. The straight, square lines with large glass surfaces were typical of 80s models. The Espace was not just a minibus, but an MPV with the possibility of converting the compartment into a saloon. I don't know the technology in the Espace 1, but I think the design is really tough - something that belongs among 80s icons like the Aston Martin Lagonda and the DeLorean DMC-12.
Renault 5 Express with the passenger car's frontRenault 5 on the loading platform of a Saviem Renault SG2 (3,5 ton truck from around 1980). I hope the Super 5 is headed for renovation and not the car scrap.
Renault 5 and Express
At the moment there are far too many Renault Expresses for me to take pictures of them all. I liked this one because it is clean (renovated) in the bodywork, got nice rims and equipped with the passenger car front from "Supercinq". Most Renault Express in the city are pure used cars with signs of use all over. À propos Super 5, I thought the motif of the Renault 5 on the loading platform of a Saviem Renault SG2 (3,5 tonnes) was really French and nostalgic. I hope the Super 5 is on its way renovation and not the scrap car.
Peugeot
Peugeot 304
I have the impression that few people take the time to restore a Peugeot 304 Berline. The ones I have seen have been in original good condition - probably also the car in the pictures. I have not seen it in the city before, but discovered it on a Sunday visit to the city close to where we live. I had time to admire the stylish Italian lines. They give associations to the Alfa Romeo Super Giulia. I wish Peugeot would find a way back to previous alignments instead of today's crisscrossing lines.
Peugeot 304 Sedan.Peugeot 504 Pickup
Peugeot 504 Pickup
The pickup model was put into production a few years before the production of the passenger car was phased out, and continued until the early 90s. If you see a 504 pickup, it doesn't have to be very old. I think most pick-up cars you see on the road today have undergone some form of renovation - like the car in the picture. I have seen it in several places in the city, including recently at the city's Peugeot workshop. Considering how solid the 504 Break was, there is reason to believe that this pickup will be able to serve for many years to come.
See
Join us for a short tour of the city on the undersigned's bicycle. Céret is surrounded by fine cycle paths, whether you cycle to the beach or in the mountains. My road bike is only suitable on the road, but there are also off-road trails for those who dare.
"Belt in oil" is a solution where the timing belt whirs around in hot engine oil. The solution reduces internal friction in the engine, but the solution is a messy mess that can hit car owners hard.
Affected engines
Engines of the 1,2 liter type PureTech with type numbers beginning with "EB". These are 3-cylinder engines with and without turbo that are found in almost all petrol-powered Peugeot and Citroen from the 2013 model year. You can find them in many Opels as well. Affected car models are Peugeot 208, 2008, 308, 3008, 508, 5008, Partner, as well as Citroen C3, C3 Picasso, C4, C4 Cactus and Berlingo. Opel with PureTech engines are of recent date. Affected models include the Corsa F, Crossland and Grandland X.
One of my readers, Bjarne, had problems with his 2017 model Peugeot 2008. The car has gone into emergency mode and can no longer be used. The timing belt can break at any time, and parts of the belt are believed to have clogged the oil pump.
How could this happen?
To form an impression of what the register in the engine looks like, I looked at a YouTube video where a calm Englishman fixes and explains. He shows a timing belt that is about to crumble. It looks like it might smoke while cranking the engine by hand. You also see that the belt is smeared with oil and perhaps think that it is a broken shimming ring or something like that which has caused engine oil to get into the register housing. But, no. The engine is actually designed so that the timing belt runs in a hot oil bath.
Forced recall
Rubber belts and hot engine oil are not a good combination, but the timing belt should be based on a plastic material, not rubber. The manufacturer of the straps has clearly not been completely successful with the chemistry. The material cannot withstand oil and crumbles over time. Not only is the belt's durability weakened, but the plastic waste ends up in the bottom pan and eventually clogs the strainer to the oil pump. A third consequence is that damaged belts can lose the ability to pull the vacuum pump that creates vacuum for the brake booster. This meant that the manufacturers were forced to recall affected cars for inspection and possible rectification.
Bjarne received a summons from Peugeot to inspect the timing belt. It was carried out at Bertel O Steen in Drammen, who stated that the strap was in order and that he could only drive on. This happened at about 80.000 km with half a year left in the warranty - half a year before the rust from the belt clogged the strainer to the oil pump.
With the YouTube film in mind, one can wonder how Peugeot could give the go-ahead to Bjarne's car. The disintegration hardly happened overnight. Had the mechanic looked more closely, he could have seen that the belt didn't look very good. The explanation is that the inspections were carried out with a special tool that is inserted through the oil filler pipe where it can be determined whether the belt has swollen. It is about a purely template-like measurement method based on "Go or No go". The swelling is one of several signs that the strap is damaged. The measurements revealed many errors, but far from all. Several owners experienced breakdowns immediately after the brand workshop had carried out the inspection. A visual inspection would probably have revealed more errors.
Bjarne's car broke down six months after the inspection. The warranty period had then expired. The Peugeot factory has recently disclaimed all responsibility because not all services have been carried out at Peugeot or a workshop approved by Peugeot.
Timeline
In 2012, the first cars with the PureTech engine were delivered. They were model year 2013. In 2018, reports poured in about problems related to a clogged oil pump and oil pressure. In 2019, sporadic cases appeared where owners experienced failure of the brake servo. Several car owners have commented online that they did not receive any admissions from Peugeot about the problems, but in 2021 all affected owners received a summons for an inspection. It was then stated that the problems concerned model years from 2013 to 2017. The French car magazine Argus has established that PSA made a change to the timing belts in April 2017, among other things by removing the outer layer - the one that disintegrated first. The magazine says that the problems are likely to persist after 2017. PSA has not provided any information that they have made improvements, but according to French media, will provide an extended warranty regarding problems with the "belt-in-oil" solution effective from January 2021.
Scope
Probably all the cars in the relevant period were equipped with timing belts of the same quality, but the deterioration developed at different rates depending on how the cars were used and maintained, and the influence of external factors. In 2020, the factory adjusted the change interval down from 180.000 km and 10 years to 100.000 km and 5 years. It may have saved many car owners from trouble. Many have nevertheless changed earlier than prescribed, and according to information from cars for sale on the Internet, several have had this done under warranty. If you drive a car with a PureTech engine before the 2018 model year and have not yet changed the timing belt, you should do so now. If you had your belt changed before 2018, you should still follow up, as the new belt may be of the same type that cannot withstand engine oil.
Peugeot 2008 PureTech 1,2 110 HP
How to live with "belt-in-oil"
The PureTech engine has many good features in terms of performance and consumption. According to the belt manufacturer, belts in an oil bath should reduce internal friction in the engine by up to 30%. But the solution has a number of challenges. Owners of cars with these engines must carry out more frequent checks and expect that the belts may have a shorter lifespan than the factory has indicated. Based on experience to date, it appears that the following factors may influence the damage:
Gasoline in the oil
It is believed that gasoline in the oil contributes to the timing belts crumbling early. There will always be some petrol in the oil. Long-distance cars are less susceptible than cars with frequent starts, driving with a cold engine and short journeys. It is speculated whether petrol with ethanol E10 contributes to speeding up the damage.
Frequent oil changes and the right type of oil
The factory's prescribed oil intervals of 2 years should be shortened to every year. Oil collects carbon which can damage the timing belt. Since plastic particles can get into the oil, it should be drained with a warm engine, not sucked out. The oil must be approved by PSA - for example Total Quartz INEO First 0W30 even though the timing belts have not withstood these oils either. It is speculated whether oils with other properties could have reduced the damage.
Check the timing belt between shifts
Several cars have reported problems long before the factory change intervals. The factory therefore recommends inspections between intervals - also for cars from model year 2018. Regular checks can make it easier to sell the car later. But think about it whose who will do the checking and how it must be performed. Measurement of bredde using the dealer's special tool does not pick up all damaged timing belts. A visual check should also be carried out. If you are nearing the end of the warranty period, you should consider having the timing belt checked visually and documented by an independent workshop.
Buying a used car with PureTech
Avoid cars with low mileage and a lot of "short driving" with a cold engine. Even if the timing belt has been changed, late damage can occur because the bottom pan and the strainer for the oil pan are already partially clogged by grease from earlier, or the engine has previously been run with a clogged oil pump. As a buyer, what you can check on site is limited. If you buy from a dealer or workshop, you can demand that they check the width of the strap. I recommend accessing the service and workshop documents - not just the stamps in the service booklet.
Lack of control options can be compensated with a good used car warranty. Make sure it includes changing the timing belt.
Sources
There is a lot of documentation about this problem. Thanks to workshops that posted YouTube clicks and posts. On the forum pages, you can also find stories about car owners who are affected by the misery with Peugeot and Citroen's "belt-in-oil".
OGS Mechanics on YouTube shows a clogged oil pump strainer on an almost new Peugeot 3008.
Price examples from dealer - August 2022:
Fault finding, replacement of the bottom pan, cleaning of the oil strainer, engine oil and oil filter: NOK 7
Change timing belt set, change solenoid valve, engine oil and oil filter: NOK 22
See
A5 and T5 with manufacturing defectsThe truth about the TSI engineWhy do brake discs rust?
The Citroen C1 and Peugeot 108 are discontinued, while the Toyota Aygo X comes in a brand new, trendy, high-built crossover version. We take a closer look at the discontinued models that will be found in the used car market in the future.
Cleans the model program
The decision to sacrifice the two PSA models is a consequence of the merger between PSA and Fiat-Chrysler. Stellantis wants to secure the Fiat Panda and Fiat 500's positions in the market. These models are more important for Fiat than what the Citroen C1 and Peugeot 108 are to PSA. This leaves PSA without any model in the A segment. Citroen fills the gap with the following two models: The new all-electric AMI, which is a moped car with a battery capacity of 5,5 kWh, a range of 75 km and a top speed of 45 km/h. In addition, Citroen has launched a toned-down version of the C3, called the C3 You, with a PureTech 82 HP engine and manual transmission. It has simpler decor, simpler seat covers and a scaled-down infotainment system, but the same level of safety as the other C3 variants.
Toyota's factory
The collaboration between PSA and Toyota has included the models Citroen C1, Peugeot 107/108 and Toyota Aygo. They are manufactured in the same factory with identical technical components. If you look closely at the seams of the cars, it says "Toyota" on several of the parts. There is a lot of Toyota in them, and a year ago Toyota took over ownership of the factory in Kolin, Czech Republic. There they will produce the new Aygo X and Yaris.
New Toyota Aygo X "Ginger"
New Toyota Aygo X "Ginger"New Toyota Aygo X "Ginger"
Aygo X as a crossover
The new Aygo X - "X" stands for cross - is built on the same platform as the Yaris. With a total length of 370 cm, width of 174 cm and 18-inch wheels, it is large for its class. The engine is basically the same as in the Aygo, but now adapted to new European environmental requirements. The new Aygo X is no boring Toyota. It has sharp, modern lines and app solutions aimed at young, café latte-drinking, urban people. It is offered in 4 different spice colors – Cardamom, Chili, Ginger and Juniper. The signature model is made in a limited edition - made in "Cardamom" with decorative elements in "Matte Mandarina".
Toyota largest of the three
In the last 3-4 years, new car sales of Citroen C1, Peugeot 108 and Toyota Aygo have been very modest in Norway. In the rest of Europe, on the other hand, Aygo has had good sales figures with almost 100 cars sold in 000. Of the three models, Aygo has accounted for 2019% of sales, while Citroen C50 and Peugeot 1 have each accounted for 108%. The same relationship was present in Norway.
Used cars
At the moment there are 178 used cars of the mini trio from the Czech Republic for sale on Finn.no. As a used car, you can get a simple, reliable car with low mileage for around NOK 30. The Toyota Aygo is generally more expensive than the other two models for no real reason. All three models are produced on the same assembly line. According to TÜV reports from 000 to 2015, the three models come out better than average. Almost all the cars for sale have the same 2019-litre engine with 1,0 cylinders and timing chain. Newer cars could be delivered with 3 VTi engines - also those with 1,0 cylinders and a timing chain. They provide 3 HP instead of 72 HP. In Europe, cars were sold with a 69 diesel engine producing 1,4 HP. These have a timing belt - not a chain. Some cars have an automatic transmission, which is an unsophisticated, robotic, manual 54-speed transmission solution. It shifts hard and erratically and is not suitable for driving on icy and snowy roads. Is not recommended.
Known error
Faults that reoccur more often than other cars are a worn clutch and water penetrating the passenger compartment. Some owners experience water coming in from the roof, others from the boot. There has also been a warranty repair due to poorly glued rear windows.
2012 Peugeot 107 (Photo: FavCars.com)
Model history
Citroen C1Peugeot 107/108Toyota Aygo
The models were produced from 2005 to 2022. In that time, 3 upgrades were made. The first for model year 2009, then 2012 and a major change for 2014. Peugeot went by the model name 107 until 2014, when it changed its name to 108. The changes consisted of visual changes, interior controls and seat upholstery. The changes in 2014 included improvements to the rear suspension and the option of a hill start holder.
On the road
Although the 1-litre engine does not perform all the world's best on paper, it is experienced as responsive and nimble with good traction at low revs so that you rarely need to push the engine. The gearbox is suitable for quick shifting, the steering is light, and with a hill start holder - both easy to drive and fun to drive. It is well suited for training new drivers. In terms of space, it is a 2+2, not a 4-seater. The driver's seat with fixed headrest is surprisingly comfortable even for tall people. The sound level is higher than in the classes above, without being particularly annoying.
Facts about the 2014 Citroen C1
Length, width, height: 347 x 162 x 146 cm
Wheelbase: 234 cm
Own weight: 855 kg
Net weight: 310 kg
Engine: 1KR-FE, 998 ccm, 3 cyl, 12V
Power: 69 HP at 6000 rpm
Torque: 95 Nm at 4800 revolutions
Power transmission: 5-speed, front-wheel drive
Front suspension: MacPherson, independent suspension
— rear: semi-independent
Front brakes: Ventilated discs
— behind: Drums
Top speed: 157 km/h
0-100: 14,3 seconds
The interior is in "zebra red"2013 Citroën C1
The Citroen AMI is an electric car registered as a moped car. Maximum speed is 45 km/h and the range is 75 km. The special appearance means that you cannot always determine which side is in front and which is behind 🙂
See
So, you want to buy a supermini?On a city tour with the Citroen C1Fiat 500 for sale KIA Picanto – not as big as you think
The model that became known for its pig snout. Here converted into a camping car.
If you convert a vintage car into a camper, you can create your own time bubble and spend many days in it.
A rolling project
The car in the pictures has registration numbers from more recent times, but lacks a visible insurance certificate in the windscreen, which is mandatory in France. Through the front window I could make out the wood or wood veneer furnishings that are typical for camper vans. The superstructure above the roof looks like a sleeping alcove and the patina testifies that it has accompanied the car for many years. This may seem like a rolling project. A fully equipped car can be used for retro camping.
Hippie culture
I took the photos earlier this autumn - in a village in the south of France. There, it is possible for people seeking freedom to live in mobile homes all year round. Not big, expensive camper vans, but simple "hippie buses" based on older Volkswagen T3, Ford Transit or similar that can easily be parked in regular public car parks with public toilets nearby.
Tough front with a truck feel
Few copies left
The vehicle in the pictures may have had a past as a hippie bus, but now it was parked in a nice residential area. A car like this is special in several ways. First of all because it is more than 60 years old Peugeot D4 - a model that is very rare - even in France. The Doningen is also interesting for its very special superstructure. With some work, this could be the coolest RV on any campsite!
It's not every day you come across a Peugeot D4 with active registration numbers.
Model history
Spartan driving environmentThe first edition of this model was called D3. It was developed during the war and put into production from 1947 by the car manufacturer Chenard-Walcker. The engines were supplied by Peugeot and were the same engine that was in the Peugeot 202 of the time. However, the engines went out of production when the Peugeot 203 was launched. According to the websites of Friends of Chenard & Walcker refused Peugeot to deliver the new 203 engines to Chenard-Walcker, which contributed to the company's failure and eventually being taken over by Peugeot. The D3 was the company's last model - which became a new, long-awaited model at Peugeot. The Peugeot D3 was produced in several series - all with engines taken from Peugeot's passenger car programme, first from the 203, - later from the 403. From 1955, the model was called the Peugeot D4.
Modern technology
Apart from the changes under the engine compartment, only minimal changes were made to the appearance. In the vernacular, the special front part was referred to as the "pig's snout" (nez de cochon). Despite the old-fashioned appearance, the D3 and D4 were advanced cars for their time with self-supporting bodywork, front-wheel drive and independent suspension on all 4 wheels and a 12-volt electrical system – thanks to Chenard-Walcker who had been producing cars since 1898.
In public service
The Peugeot D3/D4 could be delivered as a bus and van - and many cars were delivered to the police, fire and rescue services. The cars were also popular as stretchers. Some were specially decorated as food trucks. It is unknown whether anyone offered furnishing solutions and conversion to a camper van. The successor, the Peugeot J7, had in any case been very popular as a camping car. Several roof solutions for camping were made for this model - in the same way as for the Volkswagen T2 and T3. Nevertheless, certain Peugeot D3/D4s live on as sympathetic motorhomes, but most likely rebuilt afterwards.
Peugeot J7 (1965-1980) (source: FavCars.com)Peugeot D4B with sliding door (source: FavCars.com)
Facts about the Peugeot D3/D4
Production series:
1947-1950 Chenard-Walker D3 with engine from Peugeot 202. 1,3 liter 30 HP with 3-speed gearbox.
1950-1952 Peugeot D3A with engine from Peugeot 203. 1,3 liter 32 HP.
1952-1955 Peugeot D3B with stronger engine 40 HP.
1955-1960 Peugeot D4A with engines from Peugeot 403. First 1,5 liter 45 HP - later 1,8 liter diesel 48 HP - all with 4-speed gearbox.
1960-1965 Peugeot D4B with a stronger petrol engine of 55 HP.
Length, width and height in cm: 443 x 184 x 211
Height of depicted model: Approximately 300 cm.
Top speed: Approximately 80 km/h.
The car depicted is a Peugeot P4A produced between 1955 and 1960.
Special building with platform, superstructure and spare wheel holder.Advertisement for Peugeot commercial vehicle 1964
See
Citroen Type HRenault GoeletteFord Transit mk2Viking Camp from Åndalsnes
It was tight between the cars inside the exhibition area.
Many great donations, 60th anniversary of Mini and a very special Peugeot 403. Image gallery from RVA66 - Collection of old, exclusive and special vehicles in Perpignan, France.
Not just French cars
Many of the cars in the collection were by no means made in France - but still highly valued. Americans, for example. It is quite common to see Ford Mustangs of various vintages on the roads. I think most of them have French history, ie sold as new in France. I have also seen several Oldsmobile F85s from the early sixties. I guess that model must have had some popularity in its time.
Cars such as people's vans and buses are popular collectors' cars, here as elsewhere. The bubbles are called Coccinelle (ladybug) – or just Cox. On the occasion of Mini celebrating 60 years these days, the organizers had set aside an extended area for attending Minis. All the cars got their own party hat on the roof. It was impressive to see so many gathered in one place, but the allocated space was actually at least made. Maybe there were more Minis than planned?
Do you remember Matra Bagheera?
French cars are always the focus of the public. Simca, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen from when the undersigned was a boy, are popular with spectators at least as old. I don't know, but the sports car Matra Bagheera with three seats must have been a real "lady magnet" in the early 70s, and consequently the dream car for all of us who were young at the time.
Matra Bagheera.
Rare French cars
Recently, several pre-war models have appeared. First and foremost, a great collection of Citroen Traction Avant, which was produced right up until the mid-50s. A stately long-edition Peugeot 402 also appears regularly. We are talking about real, French classics - but cars that few surviving Norwegians had any special relationship with? The Peugeot 403, on the other hand, was a very common car on Norwegian roads. The pontoon bodywork bore little resemblance to contemporary pontoon models from Mercedes-Benz. The Peugeot 403 was popular with taxi owners. Spacious, durable and solid. The Familiale version could be delivered with three rows of seats. At the last gathering in Perpignan, a very special Peugeot 403 appeared. A cabriolet, - you know the car that police lieutenant Columbo drove around in. Or "wheeled" you could say, since the car in the TV series had no engine and otherwise appeared to be particularly drivable. The red cabriolet in Perpignan, on the other hand, looked like new. The 1,5 liter purred like a cat – and moved almost as silently as Columbo's car.
More pictures
Click on an image - or thumbnail - to see it in a larger format.
This widened Alpine A110 got a lot of attention.Simca 1000.
Beautiful VW bubble circa 1965/66 with sidewalls and black signs (fr).French everyday cars. Citroen 2CV and Renault 4, with Renault 10 in the background. At the outer edges we can see Citroen Ami (left) and Citroen Mehari (th).
The pre-war model Peugeot 402 in a long version.Exhibitors at the collection. In the foreground: Ford Mustang mk1 1971-73.Classic Opels. From left: Monza 2,5E and Manta GT/E.1962 Oldsmobile F85 3,5 V8Classic Minis at Rassemblement Vehicules Anciens in Perpignan.1956 Peugeot 403 Convertible
Details of the Peugeot 403 CabrioletNice interior. Peugeot 403 Convertible.
Classic MinisA rebuilt Citroen Acadiane and Citroen 2 CV FourgonnetteFord Mustang Mk1Time for Sunday lunch! Everyone leaves at the same time.
Facts
Rassemblement Véhicules anciens du 66 aims to collect cars that are either old, exclusive and/or special cars from the Pyrenees-Orientales (66) district in France. Meetings are held on the first Sunday of each month all year round. The meeting point is now around the Carré d'Or shopping center next to the city's largest Carrefour centre. Map description is provided on the organiser's website. It is open to the public, who either park at Carrefour or inside by McDonalds on the south side. The opening hours are between 9 and 12. You should not arrive after 10.30 as many leave early to catch Sunday lunch.
What is the name of the reversing alarm again in French? I saw: "You know, that sound you hear when you back up?", whereupon the salesman exclaims jovially "Ah d'accord! Un Beep-beep-beep!”. I have had the pleasure of helping a friend buy a car - in France. It was a Peugeot 208. First and foremost because of a serious, local dealer with a good reputation. The Peugeot 208 is very popular in France. Good space in relation to external measurements. Easy to park. And last but not least, it is French. It can offer advantages.
Dealers' secret list
Actually, we were looking for a nicely used car, but now towards the end of the year there were several unsold 2018 models. Brand new cars at reduced prices. The sales manager was able to obtain a live online overview of all cars that were available nearby. All French car brands have interim warehouses around the country which are continuously filled with cars from the production premises. Sometimes too many cars of certain models are produced. Then there will be chaos in the warehouse. If the situation becomes completely catastrophic, the prices are dumped. Not officially, but as a special offer you can get when you are ready to buy at a dealer.
With their special shape, these began to take up a lot of storage space.A few years ago, the Peugeot 308 SW mk1 was such a car. It achieved far from its expected sales figures. Before Peugeot could reduce the production rate, stocks increased dramatically. I've heard of several people who got adventurous rejections for brand new 308 SW - only in France, mind you. Good give-away prices.
Search locally online first
Anyone can gain insight into the dealers' secret list by searching "Offres du moment" on Peugeot's French websites. Other French brands have corresponding websites. These are not just promotional models, but offers on cars parked around the country near your specified postcode. But they do not show all cars. My friend was offered a show car that was at a dealer in the neighboring valley. I couldn't find that car online. In contrast, I found some very good offers on stock cars of the entry-level model. Only 10 euros. Dirt cheap! But the weakest 990-liter 1,2 HP engine needs to be whipped hard to go. The engine is far too small for this car. The cars are only recommended because of the price. New 68 for just over 208 sheets, it's still nothing to complain about! But if you can afford it, you shouldn't go for anything less than the PureTech petrol engine with 100 HP - also popular in Norwegian cars.
I recommend taking a look at current special offers online before you visit a dealer. It gives an indication of which models there are many of in stock right now, and which you can make a good purchase on. In any case, you won't get anything worse offer than the prices online!
More about the bone
Be aware that if there is an exceptionally good offer on the dealers' lists, you may run the risk of several buyers considering the same car - at the same time. If you say "I'll think about it until tomorrow", you risk the car being sold in the meantime.
The car that interested us was offered with an extra discount of 300 euros from our seller. It was before lunch. After lunch, the seller unfortunately had to announce that the extra discount could not be given anyway, because someone had in the meantime made an offer for the same car to another customer without extra discount. But for the same price, we could snap up the car in front of the noses of the others. You never know whether there really were any other buyers - but it feels really good to be able to pick up something right in front of someone's nose!
A few practical pieces of information
No annual fee
You pay no annual fee in France. The dealer will probably charge a fee to register the car and obtain a vehicle registration card - the gray card (la carte grise - «la kartegri:s'). Any shipping may also be added. At our dealer, the mark-up was approximately 300 euros.
Insurance must be purchased separately
It is not as easy to buy insurance directly from the dealer. Our dealer was able to establish telephone contact between the buyer and Peugeot's insurance company. All agreements would then be made directly between the parties without the negotiator becoming involved. You can buy car insurance through your bank or of course through an insurance company you already use.
Bring the electricity bill
In order to be issued with a carriage card, a certificate of residential address is required - which links you as a resident to your stated address. It may be a bill for electricity, water or waste disposal - but not insurance. The bill must document that you are resident - not the owner. This is common practice in France.
Advance payment when ordering
You must expect to pay 10% of the purchase price when you sign the contract. It is also common to pay by check in France. Our dealer does not take cards, but accepted that the buyer transferred money to the next day, - and the remaining amount by the day the car is picked up.
Foreign telephone numbers
The French do not like foreign phone numbers, even if they know that the calls will be answered in French. Many computer systems only accept French numbers. You can of course enter your e-mail or a friend's French telephone number. I often choose to agree that "I'll pop in for a walk tomorrow to hear how it's going" - or something like that. You can never trust someone to call a foreign phone number or send an e-mail. That's just how it is.
Small stop for driver change during test drive. The sales manager guides the buyer.
Peugeot 208
Model history
Terje's cars have tested the Peugeot 208 under the title A rather small steering wheel. The small steering wheel allows you to read the instrument over the steering wheel and not between. The 208 was introduced in spring 2012 and received a mild facelift in 2015 with changes to the front, new running lights and changes to the infotainment system. New engines included, among other things, 100 HP HDI. A brand new model is on the way and is expected to be introduced in the spring. In line with previous practice, with its predecessors 206 and 207, Peugeot is likely to continue producing the outgoing model in parallel with the new one. I won't dwell on old myths about French cars, but few French cars are as flawless as the cars towards the end of their production period.
On the road
The Peugeot 208 has good seats. Handles and interior seem solid. The 3-cylinder engine is very audible and emits a lot of vibrations below approx. 1750 revolutions. You need to give plenty of gas to start from a standstill. Then the 3-cylinder sound image is very audible. At speed, however, the engine is well dampened. The gearbox has 5 steps and is operated with a gear lever that I think is similar to something you find in a truck. Gear changes are a bit slow. No sporty clack-clack, but alright in daily use.
The car's big plus is the use of space. The interior space is surprisingly good despite the compact exterior dimensions. The forward A-pillars and the small steering wheel help to give the feeling of plenty of space.
Prices
In Norway, cars such as the Peugeot 208, with their low weight and low CO2 emissions, turn out surprisingly favorably in terms of price. On Peugeot.no, a Peugeot 208 1,2 PureTech 82 HP Allure with metallic costs NOK 214. Even if you have to add half-yearly tax and winter tyres, you get a lot of car for the money. In France, the list price of a similar car is as high as NOK 820 (conversion rate 188 from euro to NOK). A type of equipment is supplied under Allure, called Signature. It is somewhat simpler, - among other things without navigation, light alloy wheels and chrome mirror housings. I wanted to go for the Allure, but there was no Allure on the dealers' lists - only the Signature. My friend therefore ended up with a new 2018 Peugeot 208 1,2 PureTech 82 HP Signature with metallic, 3-year service agreement and an acceptable refusal.
And it had beep-beep-beep!
Summary
If you buy a French car in France, you can get better discounts than on imported cars - provided you choose stock cars.
Scandinavians and Britons are considered good customers. Use recommended dealers and tell the salesperson that you are connected to other Scandinavians/British in the city.
Choose the correct model and engine variant. It simplifies maintenance. Consider extended warranty/service agreement.
Prepare in advance. Search the manufacturer's French website for special offers near you. Feel free to check the price of both used and new cars in stock at a special price.
New from 2019 regarding re-registration
If you buy a car from a dealer, they arrange everything with registration/re-registration. If, on the other hand, you buy from a private person, the parties must arrange re-registration themselves. From 2019, online services have been established to register a new – or change – vehicle license online. That solution is not recommended for several reasons - to which I will return. So, if you buy a car from a private person, you arrange a meeting at a local car dealer. Remember to bring your passport and a bill that links you to a French address, such as an electricity bill, water bill or communal costs. NB! There must be a bill that says that you bor at the address (preferably a holiday home). It is not enough to document that you eier the house. Several car dealers operate with a fixed price for this service. I have heard that it should be between €30-40 in my small town.
Here are the challenges if you should still try to register a vehicle license online
To get something done, you need a secure ID - similar to what we use Bank ID for at home. You can find more about "FrenchConnect" at the link below. About FrenchConnect (secure id)
People who do not live in France may face several problems. First of all, you need a French passport or French identification. If you pay taxes (property tax, residence tax), you must also be able to use your 13-digit "Numero Fiscal" which you will find on your last payment instruction. I tried to use my number, and it was actually approved - and called "tax number". As a foreigner, it is still not certain that the system will approve you - either because you are a foreigner or because your telephone number is Norwegian. Services that generate access codes on the mobile probably require a French mobile number.
There are also websites that offer online re-registration. I have not followed any of them and do not know how they handle the requirement for authentication / secure ID - and whether they offer a service similar to what car dealers do.
Update 31.01.2019/XNUMX/XNUMX: Just spoke to someone who tried to get a vehicle license online. Both buyer and seller were French - had French telephones - and reasonably "advanced" in computer processing. They succeeded not and had to visit a car dealer instead.
I found this Simca 1000 at the brand workshop. Simca was known as Talbot - before they were acquired by Peugeot.Peugeot 205 XAD Multi. Very rare special edition of 205.
