CKFCar Known Faults
SevereAffected: 2006-201270,000–120,000 miles

Peugeot 207 1.6 HDi 90bhp — Alternator / Smart Charge System Failure

Modern vehicles use smart charging systems to reduce engine load, but the complex regulators on the alternators frequently fail.

Severity

Severe

DIY Difficulty

Moderate

Est. Cost

£250–£450

OBD Codes

P0620P0622
Component Diagram

Electrics

Typical layout and location for the Electrics assembly.

Electrics diagram
Reference Illustration

Symptoms

  • Red battery warning light on dashboard
  • 'Charging System Fault' message
  • Systems shutting down (radio, power steering) as battery depletes
  • Car fails to start

Root Cause

The internal voltage regulator or diode pack on the alternator burns out due to heat and age. Occasionally, a slipping auxiliary belt causes the issue.

How To Fix

  1. Test battery voltage with engine running (should be 13.8V - 14.7V).
  2. If below 12.5V, replace the alternator.
  3. Always replace the auxiliary drive belt at the same time.
  4. Cost: £250-450

Estimated Repair Costs

Repair OptionEst. Cost (GBP)
DIY (parts only)£100–£180
Independent Garage£250–£450
Main Dealership£400–£720

Other Faults on This Variant

Timing Belt Failure (60,000 Mile Interval)

Critical
2006-20121–60,000 miles£300–£600

The PSA 1.6 HDi engine has a 60,000-mile or 4-year timing belt interval — much shorter than most competitors. Belt failure destroys the engine. Many 207 owners are unaware of this critical maintenance item.

Injector Seal Leak (Chuffing / Black Death)

Severe
2006-201250,000–100,000 miles£150–£600

Copper injector seals fail, allowing exhaust gases and unburnt diesel to escape and coat the top of the engine in a hard black tar affectionately known as 'Black Death'.

Turbo Oil Starvation and Destruction

Critical
2006-201260,000–120,000 miles£700–£1200

The 1.6 HDi (DV6) engine is infamous for destroying turbos. The cause is almost always oil sludge blocking the tiny gauze filter in the turbo oil feed pipe.

Disclaimer: Repair cost estimates are indicative and based on community data. Always get a quote from a qualified mechanic before proceeding with any repair.