2013 — 2016
1.6L I4 (EP6)
Petrol
Start the engine from a cold state with the bonnet popped open, listening closely for a loud, metallic rattling noise (often compared to a diesel engine sound) from the left side of the engine bay. | Note: This 'death rattle' indicates a stretched timing chain or a failing hydraulic tensioner, which is a notorious issue on the Peugeot EP6 engine. If left unaddressed, it can lead to jumped timing and catastrophic engine failure.
Drive the vehicle up a steep incline (such as Auckland's or Wellington's hilly streets), let off the accelerator completely to coast, and then press it firmly again while looking in the rearview mirror for blue exhaust smoke. | Note: Blue smoke under these conditions points to hardened or failed valve stem seals, a very common EP6 malady that causes severe oil consumption. Fixing this requires labor-intensive specialist engine work.
Inspect the passenger footwell carpet for dampness and check the coolant expansion tank under the bonnet for low levels or a brown, oily residue. | Note: The plastic thermostat housing and coolant bypass pipes on these engines are prone to cracking and leaking. Damp carpets suggest the heater matrix is leaking, which is expensive to replace due to dashboard removal.
During the test drive, pay attention to the shift quality of the automatic transmission (especially the 4-speed AT8 gearboxes), checking for harsh downshifts, slipping, or a 'Gearbox Fault' warning on the dash. | Note: The pressure modulation solenoid valves in these transmissions are known to fail prematurely. A rough shift or hesitation often indicates the solenoids need replacing alongside a transmission oil flush.
Minor service interval. Ensure high-quality synthetic oil meeting PSA B71 2290 specifications is used. Rotate tyres to mitigate front-wheel wear on abrasive NZ chip-seal roads, and inspect front brake pads.
Intermediate service. Replace spark plugs and cabin air filters. Inspect the accessory drive belt and water pump friction wheel for wear. Perform a preventative automatic transmission fluid drain and refill.
Major critical milestone. Inspect the timing chain for stretch using a specialist gauge. Replace the valve cover gasket to stop oil leaking into the spark plug wells, and test the vehicle's alternator and battery health.
Check the engine oil level weekly using the dipstick; the EP6 engine is known to consume up to 1 litre of oil per 1,000 km even when running normally.
Always run the car on premium unleaded fuel (95 or 98 octane) to minimize carbon build-up on the valves and prevent engine pinking.
Strictly use PSA-approved oil (such as Total Quartz Ineo ECS 5W-30) to protect the sensitive variable valve timing system (VTi/Valvetronic).
Visually inspect the plastic thermostat housing and surrounding coolant hoses for pinkish-white crusty residue at every service interval.
Ensure the main 12V battery is kept in top health, as low voltage on French electronics triggers false dashboard warnings and limp-mode errors.
Estimated repair costs if issues arise
Almost guaranteed to be needed once in the vehicle's lifetime, typically between 80,000km and 120,000km. Best done by a European car specialist in NZ with the correct locking tools.
Required if the vehicle is consuming excess oil (more than 1L/1,000km) or emitting blue smoke. A specialist can do this 'on-car' without removing the cylinder head to save on labor.
A routine failure item on the EP6 engine. Always replace with the revised OEM part and replace the coolant temperature sensor harness at the same time.
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Disclaimer: This report is generated with the assistance of AI analysis based on verified automotive data. While we strive for 100% accuracy, enthusiasts should always conduct physical inspections and consult service records. View Full Disclaimer