Peugeot 307 1.6i intermittent starting fault?
Sometimes starts first time, on other occasions all I get is a click, seems to be after a run or whilst the weather is hot?
From the symptoms you describe it would indicate a starter motor fault as the clicking noise is the solenoid engaging

Peugeot 407 Starting/Cutting Out Fault?
Modified TDC sensor and pulley replacement parts available.

FAULT: Turbo failure VEHICLE MAKES: Citroen, Peugeot and Ford (these are the most commonly affected makes, although other makes may also be subject to this fault).
Peugeots affected include:
Peugeot 206 (2004 onwards)
Peugeot 206 cc (2005 onwards)
Peugeot 307 (2004 onwards)
Peugeot 407 (2004 onwards)
Peugeot Partner van (2004 onwards )
ENGINE: 1.6 HDi Turbo

CAUSE OF FAULT:
It is believed that the turbo failure is as a result of the oil and filter renewal intervals being too far apart.

RECTIFYING THE FAULT & RECOMMENDATIONS:
As well as the turbo being renewed it is recommended that the oil feed and return pipes are renewed. It is recommended the oil pick up strainer in the sump is renewed also.

POSSIBLE PREVENTION:
We would recommend the oil and filter to be changed every 6,000 miles (or at least annually) regardless of the age of the vehicle and this should be carried out before and after turbo failure – you should also maintain the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals. Renewing the oil and filter in between services will not invalidate the manufacturer’s warranty on a vehicle 3 years old or less. An oil and filter change is inexpensive and could save you from a costly, inconvenient repair to renew the turbo.

2.0 Hdi Starting Fault?
Engine not turning over or turning over slowly: usually faulty starter motor rather than battery.

Peugeot 207 1.6HDi sport 90 bhp 2007.  It has started to ping an alarm and readout  ‘brake failure – stop’.
If I switch the engine off and re-start this message disappears. However, it comes back every so often?

Do not drive!  Possible ABS or brake fluid level fault.

Seized Diesel Injectors
We are encountering vehicles with faulty diesel injectors more and more.
Increasingly, we are finding that dealers and independent repairers are unable to remove the seized injectors resulting in massive unnecessary repair costs and the inconvenience of the vehicle being off the road for several days.

We have therefore taken action and invested in bespoke equipment to remove them quickly and easily at a fraction of the cost and elimating the need for head removal or engine renewal and we are proud to announce that we are the only garage in the South East to have this equipment.

Peugeot 206 automatic: once a day my snow and ice lights appear in my gear show dial. 
I have to stop turn all off and start engine again to clear, not good when you are in fast lane of M25!
This indicates a fault with the automatic gearbox and the vehicle should not be driven.

Peugeot 307 hdi: headlights come on when indicating?
Possible switch or BSI fault.

Peugeot 307 1.6 2005: clutch screams when depressed and vibrates through clutch pedal. Is this the thrust bearing?
If you depress the pedal to the biting point with the car in neutral and take the clutch pedal an inch below and then an inch above biting point and the noise is present then there is a fault within the clutch.  If, however, the noise comes and go then the fault is within the gearbox.

Automatic Gearbox Fault
Affecting all Peugeot models with AL4 gearbox

Modified electro valve required which will also need re-programming (which we can do). DO NOT LEAVE THIS FAULT as it can cause further problems.

ABS Fault Peugeot 307?
Rear wheel sensors air gap corrosion. Clean and refit usually remedies fault.

Peugeot 206cc roof goes down but won’t come back up? Diagnostic test and possible re-synchronization of roof using manufacturer’s equipment.

207/208cc Convertible Roof Fault
Sometimes the roof may fail to fully open or close fully, especially if it has not been used for a while or if the car battery is not in tip top condition.  This is not necessarily a big job to rectify.  The roof will need to be pulled manually from the closed to open position and the fault cleared from the memory.  This will in most cases remedy the fault as the roof re-calibrates its movements from closed to open.

Peugeot 407 2ltr diesel saloon 2005:  Knocking in steering when turning wheel 90 degrees at very low speeds, ie turning into drive, parking space?
If it is a single knock then it may be a lower swivel which should be checked ASAP. A lighter tap, as opposed to a knock, would indicate an anti-roll bar drop link although this usually can be heard when driving in a straight line over light bumps.  If the noise speeds up with the vehicle on full lock (rhythmic) then this would point to a constant velocity (cv) joint (driveshaft).

Diesel Injection Fault Light
The diesel injection fault light indicates a fault with the high pressure system, ie pressure regulator or injectors.  However, before getting involved with diagnostic tests check the basics first.  Try renewing the fuel filter first before proceeding any further.

Note: Ensure that the fuel filter is regularly changed to prevent this fault.

Peugeot 3008 (2010 plate) 1.6 HDI engine and EGC box:  turbo common fault. 
Tips on preventative measures following replacement of the turbo? The key to avoiding future turbo related problems is frequent oil changes.  I would recommend an engine oil flush and oil change a couple of times in succession to begin with.  After that, I would strongly advise changing the engine oil every 6000 miles or 6 months whichever comes soonest.

Toyota’s current 2015 Corolla is isn’t all-out charming, but it’s engaging and interesting in a way the previous-generation Corolla missed.

The Corolla, for decades, has epitomized basic, trouble-free, and relatively comfortable transportation. That ‘no frills’ reputation changed a bit a couple of years ago, when Toyota added some more technology and flair to the Corolla, arguably breaking free of biases that have long pegged it as the blandest of the compact-sedan bunch.

With that redesign, Toyota showed, at last, that the Corolla can be more than a penny-pinching, trouble-free economy sedan. Although the Corolla has been one of the best-selling small sedans in the U.S. market — for decades — the automaker really stepped up its game with the current 2015 Corolla, bringing in the sharper, sportier looks, the quieter cabin, and the in-car technology that today’s small-car shoppers expect.

And what it’s ended up with, in this 2015 Toyota Corolla, is a vehicle that’s more than just thoroughly competent, but actually delightful at times — a model you might choose for reasons other than the bottom line and watching your dollars. Yet one thing the Corolla doesn’t stray away from is its low pricing and high value.

The 2015 Corolla doesn’t blow past any boundaries for what a Corolla should be; but it does shed some of its conservative, bare-bones appearance in favor of something more vivid and aesthetically appealing. The Corolla’s new look is described by the automaker as more athletic, and we won’t argue with that. The core design concept, of ‘Iconic Dynamism,’ might be a little tougher to make sense of, as we see bits and pieces of various other current compact-car models in the overarching design as well as styling details — too many to call it iconic.

The proportions of the 2015 Corolla are what make its design so successful. About three inches longer than the pre-2014 model, the current Corolla offers a longer wheelbase, with the wheels farther out near the corners of the car — elements that together give more visual appeal, with a sportier stance, plus more interior space. Some great details, like LED headlamps and running lamps, finish off the design.

The sporty Corolla S models stand distinct from the rest; they get a blacked-out grille in front with fog lamps flanking a more aggressive airdam; the look of the S is further sharpened by an integrated rear spoiler that visually lifts the tail.

Performance

Performance has almost never been a strength for the Corolla lineup; it’s no surprise that for the shoppers that Toyota aims for with this sedan—those who want low running costs and value for the money—that performance falls after things like interior comforts and safety features. Yet if you choose the right model in the lineup, the 2015 Toyota Corolla is definitely a little more inspired than this model has felt in the past.

The 2015 Toyota Corolla lineup continues to offer two different 1.8-liter four-cylinder engines; and rest assured that with either version, you’ll get approximately the same level of performance and fuel efficiency. L, LE, and S trim Corolla models are powered by a base 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque.

The LE Eco trim, with its 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, has Valvematic, which has a broader range of continuously variable valve timing, for better fuel economy as well as a boost in engine output, to 140-horsepower. Valvematic allows valves to ‘float’ when coasting and reduce drag when light on the throttle at higher speeds. At the same time, the system widens the torque curve—although peak torque is actually 2 lb-ft lower, at 126 lb-ft, so despite the higher horsepower don’t expect this model to feel noticeably quicker.

In most Corolla models (LE, S, and LE Eco), there’s a continuously variable transmission (CVT); with it, Toyota has managed to tune in a reassuring, almost linear feel during light and moderate acceleration, while minimizing the ‘drone’ that plagues CVTs used in other small cars. S models get a special version of the CVT that pretends it’s an automatic, with seven simulated gear ratios and steering-wheel paddle-shifters to click through them (and a nice leather-trimmed steering wheel).

Models with the CVT have much-improved highway passing response, and they feel perkier at speed in general compared to the automatic they replace (Toyota says it’s knocked nearly a second off the 0-60 mph time of the four-speed automatic). But they’re no improvement in standing-start performance, where this combination feels lackluster—especially when pointed slightly uphill or loaded with passengers—due to a rather tall starting ratio.

Those who want a manual gearbox aren’t left out either; both the base L and the sporty Corolla S model are offered with a six-speed manual (that’s one ratio more than last year). The throws are a little long and the linkage isn’t sport-sedan precise, but the clutch takeup is light and neat—making it easier than most to drive in stop-and-go traffic. And that base L is the only one that’s still saddled with an old-tech four-speed automatic transmission. It’s not bad, either—just a bit slow when you need a quick burst of passing power, because of the wide steps between its ratios.

The Corolla S (perhaps at odds with its own mission) is the model you should move toward if you enjoy driving; it gets a suspension tune that’s buttoned-down in the way you might normally expect of a sport sedan—with a special Sport button that firms up the steering, and a ride that feels firm yet absorbent and nicely damped. All models get a revised torsion-beam rear suspension that mounts bushings at a slanted position, improving both NVH and rear-end behavior near the handling limit—and S models make the most of that.

Other models in the lineup remain a bit springy and pillowy, with a ride that’s not only a little softer but also a bit busier (counterintuitively) than that of the S on jittery backroads.

Economy

Although there’s no such thing as a hybrid model in the 2015 Toyota Corolla model line, this frugal sedan has the high mileage and low running costs that those considering the Corolla are probably going to expect.

That said, some are going to expect some higher numbers, and for them the Toyota Prius lineup might be a better pick—or, potentially, the Toyota Camry Hybrid.

The LE Eco model is the one for the most mileage-conscious; it adds an Eco Drive Mode button that brings further changes to shift points, throttle response, and accessory operation.

That fuel-economy special of the lineup is the LE Eco. But if those numbers are the top priority, don’t load it up with options; if you get either the Plus or Premium packages, you’ll upgrade to 16-inch alloy wheels (rather than the 15-inch steel wheels), and that’ll knock the 42-mpg highway estimate down to 40 mpg.

Additional notes

The 2015 Toyota Corolla lineup continues to offer two different 1.8-liter four-cylinder engines; and rest assured that with either version, you’ll get approximately the same level of performance and fuel efficiency. L, LE, and S trim Corolla models are powered by a base 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. The LE Eco trim, with its 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, has Valvematic, which has a broader range of continuously variable valve timing, for better fuel economy as well as a boost in engine output, to 140-horsepower. In most Corolla models (LE, S, and LE Eco), there’s a continuously variable transmission (CVT); with it, Toyota has managed to tune in a reassuring, almost linear feel during light and moderate acceleration, while minimizing the ‘drone’ that plagues CVTs used in other small cars. S models get a special version of the CVT that pretends it’s an automatic, with seven simulated gear ratios and steering-wheel paddle-shifters to click through them. The Corolla S (perhaps at odds with its own mission) is the model you should move toward if you enjoy driving; it gets a suspension tune that’s buttoned-down in the way you might normally expect of a sport sedan—with a special Sport button that firms up the steering, and a ride that feels firm yet absorbent and nicely damped. Other models in the lineup remain a bit springy and pillowy.

The Corolla might have been considered mid-size just a few model years ago. With its redesign last year, the Corolla gained nearly four inches in wheelbase, and that almost directly translates to some meaningful increases in back-seat space. Even those six feet tall can now ride behind other six-footers—an almost unhead-of feat among small cars. There were improvements in front-seat comfort, too, with more adjustability and longer cushions than before, or than what you’ll find in some rival models. Trunk space is abundant, too, with a long, flat floor, plus flip-forward rear seatbacks in all models.

Overall, the look and feel of the Corolla’s cabin is more conservative than the contemporary exterior might suggest. Although last year’s redesign brought upscale materials and a two-tier dash design that really helps maximize the sense of space in front, the impression is that the Corolla is aiming less for a sporty compact-car feel and more for a cabin that almost rivals mid-size interiors. A soft-touch material now covers the dash; S models have leather-like Softex bolsters and coarse, contrast-toned seat upholstery, while pinstriped accents are strewn about the cabin on the dashboard and door panels.

The 2015 Toyota Corolla offers an impressive safety set, as well as some (mostly) good crash-test ratings; although it’s missing some of the advanced active-safety technology that’s fast becoming the norm for this class of vehicle. It includes eight standard airbags along with Toyota’s Star Safety system, which includes vehicle stability control, traction control, anti-lock braking system, electronic brake-force distribution, and brake assist.

Across the lineup, Toyota now offers infotainment systems that aren’t just competitive, but among the better systems in this class of affordable car when you consider their interfaces, ease of use, connectivity, and sound. Toyota’s latest Entune system, featuring navigation and apps in some models, lift the automaker’s inexpensive-car cabins out of the dark ages, and they’re widely available in the lineup.

That lineup remains comprised of four 2015 Toyota Corolla trim levels: L, LE, S, and a new LE Eco model. The base L model features standard LED low-beam headlights with LED daytime running lights, in-glass AM/FM antenna, color-keyed outside door handles, color-keyed outside mirrors, 60/40 split fold-down rear seat, power locks, doors, and mirrors, along with air conditioning, Bluetooth, and eight airbags. Equipment on all LE, S, and LE Eco Premium models now for 2015 includes the same so-called Driver Convenience Package, with a moonroof, Smart Key entry, Navigation, Entune Premium Audio, and the App Suite.

If any car can be called a game changer, it’s certainly the Prius. When we had a look at the Prius hybrid technology, our first thought was “How has nobody thought of that before?” The technology is simple, yet brilliant. The small transmission unit has just a few gears and two small electric motors. However, not only does it take care of gear ratio changing, but it also re-generates electricity and smoothly combines the power of a gasoline engine and electric motor. Thanks to this technology, the Prius is one of the most fuel efficient cars for the last 15 years. It’s also the best-selling hybrid, and is widely available on the used car market. Is the Prius dependable in the long run? How reliable is the hybrid technology? How expensive are the maintenance and repairs? We will try to answer all these questions in this review.

Toyota Prius 2004 interior.

Toyota Prius 2004 interior.

Toyota Prius 2005 engine. Photo: Toyota.

Powertrain: The Prius’s 1.5L gasoline engine is very similar to that of Toyota Yaris, but is modified for hybrid powertrain. The hybrid “transmission” unit contains two electric motors that can work as generators. One electric motor controls the gear ratio and recharges the hybrid battery. The second motor propels the vehicle at low speeds and supplies additional power on acceleration. The second motor is also used to recover energy when braking or coasting. Scroll down to the ‘Resources’ section for more detailed info. The hybrid battery is placed under the trunk floor, see the photo below.

Fuel Economy: The EPA rates the 2004-2009 Prius at 48 MPG city, 45 MPG highway and 46 MPG combined. It’s actually not that difficult to get these numbers in real world conditions. In fact, the best fuel economy we were able to get out of this 2004 Prius is 54.6 MPG combined (4.3 L/100km). On a one-day road trip we easily got 469 miles (755 km) on a 11.9-gallon tank (45 liters). According to the EPA estimate, if you drive 15,000 miles per year, you will spend only around $1,100 on fuel for the whole year. For comparison, the annual estimated fuel cost for the 2008 V6 Ford Escape is $2,350.

Timing belt or chain: The 2004-2009 Prius engine has a maintenace-free timing chain, there is no timing belt.

Handling and ride: The Prius handles well but not sporty. The ride is soft and fairly quiet. Thanks to the torquey electric motor, the Prius is actually quick off the line. You will also appreciate the small turning radius and good all-around visibility.

Toyota Prius energy monitor.

How the hybrid powertrain works: When you start moving slowly, the car drives on the electric power alone. As you accelerate past 15-20 mph, the gasoline engine kicks in. All this happens very smooth, you just hear the engine start running. When you stop at the red light, the engine shuts off. As you step on the gas, it kicks in again. At first, all this seems a bit weird, but after driving for a few days you don’t even notice it. When you coast or lightly apply brakes, the transmission unit re-generates the energy to charge up the hybrid battery. You can see the power flow on the center display.
Driving the Prius in cold seasons: First, the bad news: the low clearance makes it difficult to drive the Prius in deep snow. The fuel economy suffers too: gas mileage drops to 38-39 MPG combined. Now, the good news: we drove the Prius many times in snowy and icy conditions and it felt pretty stable. It looks like the weight of the hybrid battery over the rear axle adds some stability on slippery roads. It seems that the tail doesn’t spin out as easily as in a typical front-wheel drive car. Another advantage is that it takes only a couple minutes to fill up the Prius at a gas station because of it’s small gas tank.

Toyota Prius cargo bin.

Toyota Prius hybrid battery

Maintenance costs: The Prius is actually not very expensive to maintain. Why? Tires are cheap: $336-$464 per set on TireRack.com. Brakes last much longer than in a regular car because of regenerative braking. There is no alternator and there is only one tiny drive belt that drives the water pump. The belt itself costs less than $20 and takes a few minutes to replace. The Prius engine runs on conventional 5W-30 oil and takes only 3.9 qt. (3.7 liters) of it. Oil changes need to be done every 3,000-5,000 miles, depending on your preference. An air filter costs around $20 and is very easy to change. The cabin filter is also easy to replace (it needs to be replaced every 30,000 miles or more often if driving on dusty roads)

Hybrid system maintenance: The hybrid system doesn’t really need any special maintenance. The 2008 Prius maintenance schedule mentions changing inverter coolant at 100,000 miles and every 50,000 miles thereafter and inspecting the transmission fluid every 30,000 miles. In our 2004 Prius, we changed hybrid transmission fluid at 60,000 miles and it wasn’t even dirty.

Hybrid battery: First of all, according to many sources, the hybrid battery doesn’t fail very often. Even this 2004 Prius still has the original battery. According to the 2008 Prius owner’s warranty information, hybrid battery, hybrid control module and inverter with converter are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles. The California Emission Control warranty for the hybrid battery goes even further: 10 years or 150,000 miles. Replacing a hybrid battery at a dealership will be quite expensive ($3,500-3,800 parts and labor), but there are plenty of alternatives. For example, we found that a used or remanufactured hybrid battery can be purchased on eBay for around $1,000. Some owners mention replacing separate battery modules (which of course should be done only by a qualified technician observing all safety precautions). The 2004-2009 Prius has 28 individual modules in the battery pack and we found separate modules sold on eBay for $26-$38.

Pros: Fuel economy, spacious cabin, visibility, front headroom, cargo space, large storage bin, low maintenance, takes a very little time to fill up, extra weight on the rear axle keeps it more stable on slippery roads, brakes last longer.

Cons: Lack of driver’s seat height adjustment, interior materials could be better, low clearance.

Common problems: There are several often mentioned problems. In the early 2004-2005 Prius models the Multi Function Display unit may become inoperative. The first symptom is when the display at times doesn’t show the state of charge of the battery and becomes slow to react. The 2004 Prius we used for this review actually starts showing this problem. Thanks to the author of this post for taking time and posting details on the DIU repair. The Toyota solution is to replace the unit, which is quite expensive, although there are remanufactured and used units available on eBay and other sites.
A leaking engine water pump is mentioned often, the repair is not very expensive ($350-$450).
HID headlights seems to be another trouble spot, so if you have a choice, opting for a model without HIDs might not be a bad idea. The first symptom is that HIDs start flickering and work intermittently. Toyota parts are expensive, but alternatives are available. A failed wheel bearing may cause a humming or rumbling noise. Replacement of the wheel bearing may cost $350-$480.

Overall: The Prius is an excellent choice to save money on fuel, especially if you have to drive a lot. There is a small risk of expensive hybrid system repairs, but fuel savings are quite significant. Most Prius owners are quite happy with their cars. One of the questions in the annual Consumer Reports survey is “would you get this car if you had it to do all over again? Guess what, 85 percent of a 5-year old (2008) Prius owners answered “Yes” which is the highest rating among small cars; read more in this CR article. Overall the Prius is very reliable. Aside from that, it’s a very practical car with a spacious interior and plenty of cargo space.

What to look for when buying a used Toyota Prius: The Prius has plenty of electronics and should definitely be avoided if the history report shows that the vehicle has been involved in an accident or flooded in the past. The main question buyers of used hybrid cars have is what is the condition of the hybrid battery. Unfortunately, there is no simple way to test the hybrid battery; even the procedure described in Toyota technical literature for technicians is quite complicated and time-consuming.

Toyota Prius state of charge.

What you can do is to test drive the Prius in all modes: slow on battery power alone, accelerating, coasting and decelerating. The battery state of charge is shown in bars on the center display. As you know, over time any battery loses some of its capacity. A battery with lower capacity will not hold the charge well and will drain faster with use. It’s difficult to tell how good is the Prius battery just by looking at the power flow monitor, but if you test-drive several vehicles, you might be able to see the difference. A battery with lower capacity may drain notably faster under similar conditions. We did a little test with this Prius. We found an empty road and tried to drive it with the A/C off at slow speed (under 15 mph) so it will run on battery power only. The battery state of charge dropped from 6 bars to 4 bars after driving for just under one mile. Beside, that, the Prius needs to be inspected similarly to any other car.