Peugeot 406 Common Problems and Solutions
Car Lower on One Side
Problem:
The car is sitting lower on one side even when not in use. Eventually, you will notice that the problem becomes more noticeable, even affecting the vehicle while driving.
Solution:
Fortunately, you don't need to replace the entire suspension. Instead, you just have to order some rear suspension springs from our parts page. Although tricky to install, most people are capable of doing this job.
Difficulty level
Suspension Coil Spring
Black Smoke From Exhaust
Problem:
Black smoke emits from your exhaust pipe when you accelerate, and the engine's performance usually declines simultaneously.
Solution:
Your EGR valve has failed or been damaged. Check the BreakerYard parts list for a replacement and fit the new one in under 20 minutes.
Difficulty level
EGR Valve
Vibrations
Problem:
You can feel the car vibrating when you accelerate. The vibration will be present when idling but will be much less.
Solution:
This could be a problem with your rear engine mounts, but don't worry. We always keep these in stock and can deliver them to you. While installing the mounts may seem like a big job, it's actually much easier than you might think.
Difficulty level
Engine Mount
Bumpy Drive
Problem:
You can feel that the car is driving much bumpier than it used to be.
Solution:
Inspect your suspension, especially at the rear of the vehicle. It is very likely to have worn out or been damaged and will usually need to be completely replaced. Check our parts list for a 406 suspension system and take your time when fitting and securing it.
Difficulty level
Suspension Complete System
Inconsistent Acceleration
Problem:
The acceleration level is very inconsistent, and you're using more fuel than before. Occasionally, the engine sputters.
Solution:
The 406 is known for wearing out the fuel pump more quickly than expected. The good news is that fuel pumps are easily available in our store, and they are much simpler to replace than you might think.
Difficulty level
Fuel Pump Diesel
AC Malfunction
Problem:
The air conditioning has stopped working.
Solution:
If you don't use your AC very often, it is more likely to fail. Unfortunately, the only solution is to replace the entire AC system. While this is quite straightforward to do yourself, it can be time-consuming. Order a new AC system from our parts list and consult some online guides to make it easier.
Difficulty level
Aircon Unit
No Indicator Lights
Problem:
When you move the indicator stalk, you can hear the clicking sound, but your indicator lights are not functioning.
Solution:
This might simply involve replacing the indicator lights. If that doesn't resolve the issue, then the entire indicator stalk is likely faulty and will need replacing. We offer indicator stalks at a very affordable price, although they can be challenging to install yourself.
Difficulty level
Indicator Stalk
Overlong Stopping Distances
Problem:
The car is taking increasingly longer to stop, no matter how much pressure you apply to the pedal.
Solution:
The brake discs on the 406 are very prone to warping. Fortunately, there are several step-by-step guides available online that will walk you through the replacement process, and you can order new brake discs directly from us.
Difficulty level
Brake Disc
Fan problems
Problem:
Have you noticed problems with your fan, such as it burning out, stopping, or the relay getting burnt? This is usually caused by one of two issues: either a poor earth connection or a faulty fan control system.
Solution:
Once you have identified whether it is the earth or control module at fault, you will either need to establish a good earth connection or replace the fan control module to resolve the fault.
Difficulty level
ABS warning light
Problem:
If you have noticed the ABS warning light on the dashboard, then you most likely have an issue with an ABS sensor. This is a common problem with these cars.
Solution:
You will need to have a diagnostic check carried out on the car to accurately determine which ABS sensor is faulty. Once identified, you must replace the defective sensor to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
ABS Sensor
Starting problems
Problem:
On the HDI version of the Peugeot 406, it is common for the diesel pump to fail. If this happens, you will experience starting problems whether the engine is cold or warm.
Solution:
You will need to replace the diesel fuel pump to resolve this issue.
Difficulty level
Suspension problems
Problem:
When driving over rough surfaces or speed bumps and you hear a knocking noise from the front and rear suspension, this usually indicates that the drop links or ball joints are failing.
Solution:
To resolve this issue, you must accurately identify the specific part that is faulty and replace it. This should fix the problem. The video below demonstrates how not to do it!
Difficulty level
Switch gear stalk problem
Problem:
You may have noticed that when you turn on the indicator stalk, you can hear the indicator relay clicking, but no indicator light comes on. This is caused by a faulty switch gear stalk.
Solution:
You will need to remove the steering column to access the switch gear. Once accessed, you must fit a replacement to resolve the issue.
Difficulty level
Indicator Switch Stalk