Common Problems and Quick Fixes: Peugeot 306

If you’re looking for the ideal car for your family, the Peugeot 306 might be it. This small car was created to replace the Peugeot 309 and offers a lot to car owners. It’s a practical car with three generations and a variety of styles, including estate, cabriolet and hatchback. Want to learn more about the Peugeot 306 as well as any common problems you might experience while owning it? Continue reading.

History of the Peugeot 306

The Peugeot 306 was first developed in 1993 and features the Citroen ZX platform. It has almost the same car parts as this vehicle as well because they both are made by Peugeot. The first phase came in several different styles including saloon, cabriolet, estate and hatchback. The model offered a variety of trims and engines to suit the needs of various types of drivers.

The second phase of the 306 occurred in 1997, providing users with a fresh, new, stream-lined look. The exterior parts were made to appear more modern. There were also more engine options given, and it featured a new look for the interior. In 1999 and until 2002, the Phase 3 306 was updated with some changes as well, although they were not as significant as the second phase.

Pros and Cons of the Peugeot 306

There are several advantages to owning a 306, but there are some downsides as well, including:

• Fuel Economy- The Peugeot 306 comes with many options for engine types and sizes, including 1.1, 1.4, 1.6, 1.8 and 2.0 petrol engines. There are also two diesel engines available. The engine that stands out and offers the most fuel economy, however, is the 2.0 HDi diesel engine. You can travel up to 54 miles on a single gallon of petrol when your 306 has this engine.

• Poor Safety- Despite being a family car the 306 didn’t score when on safety. The Euro NCAP gave the vehicle only three stars for occupant protection. What was really disappointing was the one star is received for pedestrian protection.

• Excellent Handling- Driving the Peugeot 306 is easy thanks to its excellent handling. Round corners like a pro when you’re behind the wheel.

• Different Styles- One of the main benefits to the 306 was the variety of different styles it was available in. You can choose from sporty models, family-style hatchbacks, roomy estates and even elegant and posh cabriolets.

Common Problematic Peugeot Parts

As with any vehicle, the 306 is bound to have a few issues that you’ll have to fix over the years. Some may be small, while others may require a large sum of money and the phone number of an excellent mechanic.

• Coil Pack Failures- Many drivers who purchase a 306 discover this problem when they are driving. The engine may misfire, there might not be enough power to the engine or the car may have trouble starting. If you buy a 306 and experience these symptoms, you may be tempted to change the battery or replace other car parts like the spark plugs and wires. The problem most likely lies with the coil pack, however. In order to fix the issue, you need to replace the ignition coil.

• Clutch is Stiff- In the diesel versions of this vehicle, a stiff clutch can mean a headache for you. You might find it is hard to drive because you can’t push down on the clutch easily to change gears. Unfortunately, the only way to fix this issue quickly is to replace the clutch entirely. It may still work somewhat, but it is likely on its last legs.

• Idling- When you put the Peugeot in park or in a neutral gear, the engine is supposed to idle at a constant rate. Many drivers find, however, that this isn’t the case with the 306. Idling that is erratic often indicates an issue with the idle control valve. Fixing this means finding a replacement Peugeot part. Replacing it can be somewhat difficult and may require the help of a mechanic.

• Brake Warning Light- When the brake warning light comes on the dash, you know you have to figure out the problem right away. Brakes that fail or are failing affect your safety and the safety of others on the road. In this case, it could be one of two problems. The first is the brake hose on the front. This may need to be replaced. If that Peugeot part isn’t the issue, it’s most likely the sensor. To check this, visit your local garage and have a diagnostic done. The right machines will be able to tell you if the sensor is malfunctioning or if has quit.

• Problems With the Heater- During winter, heater problems will be one of the first things you notice when you climb into your Peugeot 306. If it isn’t blowing hot air out of the vents, the problem is likely the heater matrix. It has probably burst. To check, feel the front foot well carpets. If they are damp, this is a good indication the heater matrix has failed and is leaking. Your best option is to replace this car part.

• Warning Light for the Airbag- The air bag in your Peugeot is an important safety item that could save your life in the event of an accident. However, if the warning light has appeared on the dashboard, it could mean the wiring beneath your seats is faulty. If you crash, the airbag might not deploy as needed or it could deploy when you don’t want it to. Replacing this small Peugeot part should fix any issues with your Peugeot, but you may want to take the car into a professional to make sure. It’s your life at risk, after all.

Are you thinking of purchasing a Peugeot 306? These small family cars have a lot going on for them in terms of handling and fuel economy. Just be sure you understand the various problematic car parts you may need to replace in the future after buying this vehicle.