Used Peugeot RCZ review

Exterior:

• Jacking points on the Peugeot RCZ are known to be under-engineered and can easily bend. Some owners reported the need for repairs, even after Peugeot servicing.
• The aluminium roof rails, while aesthetically pleasing, can oxidize over time if not properly maintained. Replacement costs for these components can be notably high.
• Plastic components, including door handles and mirror mechanisms, have been reported as becoming brittle. Exposure to sunlight seems to exacerbate this issue.
• Electrical components, ranging from lights to mirror adjusters and door lock actuators, including the powered rear spoiler, have been prone to issues. However, the prevalence of these problems varies among individual cars.

Interior:

• Electrical issues extend to the interior, with reports of power windows and air conditioning controls failing. Checking the functionality of all electrical components is advised, as some owners experience multiple issues, while others have none.
• Repairs for interior electrical problems are often not complex or expensive, generally falling short of catastrophic failures.
• Premature wear and sagging of the leather trim, along with overly squishy bolsters, have been reported by some owners.
• A persistent rattle in the interior may be attributed to incorrectly-fitted air vents, a fixable issue with available online tutorials.
• Numerous owners have expressed dissatisfaction with the infotainment system, citing potential failures in the pop-up display and an interface that lacks intuitiveness. Bluetooth connectivity issues have also been reported, prompting some owners to budget for a replacement system or repairs.

Mechanically:

Petrol Engine:

• Developed by Peugeot Citroen group & BMW.
  • Engine faces significant reliability issues, especially in timing chain components.
  • Tensioners, guides, and chains are prone to failure.
• Common oil consumption problems even with regular servicing.
• Low oil levels exacerbate timing chain issues and impact turbo performance.
• Turbo issues include rattling waste gate, boost pressure regulator valve, and potential replacement.
• High-pressure fuel pump may require expensive replacements or reconditioning.
• Oil leaks at the pump and oil cooler cross leaks contribute to a messy engine.
• Fragile plastic thermostat housing and coolant outlet at the rear of the head.
• Direct injection leads to inlet clogging issues.

Diesel Engine:

• Generally more reliable compared to the petrol engines.
• Often used in Peugeot, Citroen, and Ford vehicles (branded as a Duratorq).
• Timing belt system reduces timing chain issues, with a small chain in the head for exhaust cam drive.
• Turbo failures can result from oil starvation, blocked oil supply line strainer, and lack of servicing.
• Injector issues are not uncommon but are relatively easy to diagnose and repair.
• Injector seals may cause carbon build-up (“black death”), making removal challenging.
• Typical DPF and EGR issues, consistent with other diesels in the category.

Transmission:

• Both manual and auto transmissions are generally reliable with proper servicing.
• Manuals have a dual mass flywheel that can cause vibrations when failing.
• Early detection through slight vibrations in the clutch pedal can prevent severe issues.

General Maintenance and Reliability:

• Service schedules are set at a high 20,000km, but it is recommended to service every 10,000km for better reliability.
• Frequent servicing at shorter intervals can reduce the likelihood of serious mechanical complications although this cannot be guaranteed.