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I am considering the purchase of a 2002 Peugeot 206cc, 1600 automatic, with with low 26,000 k's, NZ new from a dealer.

Any information on problems with this car would be appreciated.

Are the folding roofs known to leak? If yes, can this be fixed by replacing the seals?

Hartwig

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 25 November 2007

I like the fact you are looking at a NZ new example of this make and model. Make sure you ask for some evidence of a service history for the vehicle, so important in my view.

We're not aware of any issues with the brand or this model specifically, although its been our experience the automatic transmission's shift patterns can be irratic. Not a fault as such, just a frustration.

What's generally accepted for all the Euro brands however, is repair / running costs can be higher than the mainstream Japanese vehicles. Potential buyers look at models like the Peugeot CC 206 because they want to break away from the mainstream and there's nothing wrong with that, as long as you accept the potential running cost differences.

Onto the folding roof - my first priority would be to get the vehicle checked by a panel beater to ensure there is no evidence of previous accident damage or repairs to the body work. Also visually check the rubber seals for cracks etc.

Alignment of the body has to be spot-on to get any folding roof to work perfectly in terms of its folding operation and to have minimal squeaks, rattles and leaks. Note I use the word minimal, because of the body flex some convertibles are prone to. Occasional re-alignment may be required and few folding tops stay totally noise or leak free forever.

A combination of a huge down pour and high winds may induce some minor water ingress into the vehicle which a manufacturer may consider acceptable, check with the manufacturer or owner's manual some manufacturer's may advise against running such a vehicle through a car wash.

Typical areas of leakage would be around the tops of doors and where the two sections of roof meet. All areas where adjustments can be made. Replacing seals could become very expensive and with no guarantees.