Peugeot 205 Common Problems and Solutions
Loss of Steering Power
Problem:
The car occasionally does not respond when you turn the steering wheel.
Solution:
There are three reasons why the loss of steering can occur on the 205. Check that the steering column is securely positioned in the splined joint. If it looks fine the check that the steering wheel itself is not simply loose and needs to be tightened. If it feels firm, then the fault is likely to be a cracked or damaged steering rack and pinion mechanism. You’ll have to install a new steering rack, which you can order immediately from our parts list.
Difficulty level
Power Steering Rack
Non-Starting and Clicking
Problem:
When the engine is warm after a long drive, it won’t start and makes a clicking sound.
Solution:
It’s very likely that your starter motor has reached its end of life, and you’ll need to find a new one on our parts page. However, it’s worth making sure that your battery has a full charge and that the battery wirings are all connected too.
Difficulty level
Starter Motor
Engine Cutting Out
Problem:
The engine just cuts off when you're driving. It takes a while to restart.
Solution:
This is an indication that your engine is not getting enough fuel. Check your fuel pump for damage or wear and replace it if it is the obvious fault. If it seems to be working fine, then it may be the fuel filter that needs to be cleaned or replaced.
Difficulty level
Fuel Pump in Tank
Engine Falter When Braking
Problem:
The engine starts to falter when you are slowing down or when you apply the brakes.
Solution:
First, you need to check the distributor and the vacuum pipe that connects to the intake manifold. You’re looking for leaks and cracks or a loose pipe. In most cases, this issue will be caused by a faulty hose, which you will need to replace with a new one from BreakerYard. However, check your ignition timing and your exhaust for any obvious signs of damage before you commit to a time-consuming repair.
Difficulty level
The Horn, Cigarette Lighter, and Heated rear Screen Stops Working
Problem:
Without warning, the car’s horn, cigarette lighter, and the heating on the rear screen have all stopped working.
Solution:
There is a common fuse that manages power to all of these accessories, and it is likely that this has blown. Check all of your fuses and order as needed. However, you should also check the earths and the battery terminals from damage or corrosion. You can find new battery terminals and fuses in our online store.
Difficulty level
Window Malfunction
Problem:
One or more of your power windows has stopped working. They may be stuck open or closed.
Solution:
The window motor is very prone to premature wear on the 205 and will need to be replaced. If one or more of your windows has stopped working, the motor is shot and will need to be replaced with a new one from our parts page.
Difficulty level
Window Motor
Wet Seats
Problem:
Your seats feel damp, and there may be signs of water damage.
Solution:
It’s very common to have a leaking sunroof issue on the 205, but it's an easy fix. You can try to seal it yourself with some plastic glue if the location of the leak is obvious. If it's not, then a new seal is very low cost when you order from BreakerYard and a 10-minute DIY job to put in place.
Difficulty level
Blue smoke from engine when starting
Problem:
You may have noticed that there is blue smoke coming from the engine, when starting the car from cold. This is usually an indication of broken valve stem seals.
Solution:
You will need to replace the valve stem oil seals, in order to resolve the problem.
Difficulty level
Shock absorber failure
Problem:
If you have noticed that the suspension is not quite working as good as it once was, check the shock absorbers. The shock absorbers are known to fail, on the 205.
Solution:
To check if this is the problem, put your hand up under the wheel arches and feel for any fluid leaking around the suspension area. If you find a fluid leak, then you will need to fit replacement shock absorbers. This should sort out the problem.
Difficulty level
Shock Absorber
Starting problems/cutting out
Problem:
If you have noticed that your car has randomly started cutting out and you are having problems with starting it, the usual cause is the faulty fuel pump relay.
Solution:
The relay box is located under the dashboard, to the right of the steering wheel. Once you have located the relay box, you will need to remove and replace the fuel pump relay, in order to resolve the issue. If this does not seem to be your problem, have a look at the video below:
Difficulty level
Doors not opening
Problem:
On the Peugeot 205, it is a known fault to be unable to open the doors from outside the vehicle. The reason for this is due to a problem with the exterior door handle, seizing up.
Solution:
To fix this problem you will need to take off the door trim from inside the door, revealing the door handle and levers. Get some WD40 and squirt it around the top centre of the door handle, whilst moving the handle a few times until it opens. This should resolve the problem.
Difficulty level
Creaking from Rear
Problem:
You can hear a creaking sound coming from the back of the car, especially on rough roads.
Solution:
The suspension system on the 205 is famously durable, but on older models, you will get eventual wear. If you can hear creaking coming from the back of the vehicle, then your rear suspension will most likely need a rebuild. We always have suspension systems and parts for the 205 in stock, so ordering online means quick delivery.
Difficulty level
Suspension Complete System
Gear Change Issues
Problem:
It’s hard to get into 3rd and 4th gear, or the gear changes feel loose.
Solution:
If you're struggling with the 3rd and 4th gear, then it’s likely that you have the common issue of a worn-out synchromesh. This is an easier job to repair than you might think, and there are plenty of online guides available. If the gear changes feel generally sloppy and loose, then it’s your linkages that are the problem. You can order both synchromesh and upgraded gear linkages directly from our parts list.
Difficulty level
