Peugeot 106 I phase 2 (1A/C) (1996 – 2003)

Reliability score : 8.5/10

The Peugeot 106 Phase 2 (type 1A/1C), launched in April 1996, marked a major evolution for the small lion-badged city car. Now sharing its platform and many components with the Citroën Saxo, it adopted softer, more rounded lines. Designed as an economical, lightweight (often under a ton), and agile car, it established itself as a benchmark choice for new drivers and those on a tight budget. The 1.5 Diesel (TUD5) engine, which replaced the old 1.4D from Phase 1, is a true legend of French automotive history. This naturally aspirated engine is renowned for its exceptional frugality (less than 5L/100 km) and its ability to cover astronomical mileages with basic maintenance. Although its performance is modest and its sound insulation dated, it embodies the very essence of an indestructible uti

✅ Strengths

Legendary reliability of the 1.5 Diesel engine (TUD5)
Extremely low fuel consumption (Diesel and small TU engines)
Negligible maintenance and insurance costs
Agile and fun road handling (featherlight)
Availability and price of spare parts (new and scrapyard)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Fragile rear axle (a common PSA issue of the era: wheels forming a V-shape /\)
Obsolete passive and active safety (crash tests from another era, ABS rare)
Almost non-existent sound insulation (especially on the 1.5D at 130 km/h)
Imperfect driving position (non-adjustable steering wheel on many trims)
Paint clear coat peeling over time (red, blue, light clear coats)

🎯 Verdict

The Peugeot 106 Phase 2 is the archetype of the economical 'youngtimer' city car. If you're looking for an indestructible daily driver and modern comfort or passive safety aren't your priorities, the 1.5 Diesel version is a masterful choice. It's a true workhorse capable of enduring the worst treatment if its fluids are up to date. However, beware of the rear axle, a real sword of Damocles for this model. The petrol versions (1.1i and 1.4i) are excellent alternatives for short trips, avoiding the Crit'Air restrictions that affect the valiant 1.5D in large urban areas.

Common issues

Fuites de gasoil au niveau de la pompe d'injection (Lucas/Bosch) Medium

🔧 150 000 – 250 000 km

💶 300 – 800 €

Vérifier l'absence d'odeur de gasoil et de traces sous le moteur.

Usure des silentblocs de train arrière Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 400 – 800 €

Tester la tenue de route, vérifier l'usure anormale des pneus arrière.

Défaillance des bougies de préchauffage Low

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 100 – 250 €

S'assurer d'un démarrage franc à froid, sans fumée excessive.

Fuites d'huile moteur (joints spi, carter) Medium

🔧 120 000 – 200 000 km

💶 150 – 400 €

Inspecter le moteur et le sol sous la voiture pour des traces d'huile.

Usure prématurée de la pompe à eau High

🔧 80 000 – 120 000 km

💶 400 – 700 €

Vérifier l'historique de remplacement de la courroie/pompe à eau.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£60 – 120
Timing belt	£450 – 800
Clutch	£650 – 1 100
Complete brakes	£200 – 400
Estimated annual budget	£500 – 1 000

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.