As with most big purchasing decisions you'll make in life, when you're buying a new car, there will be several important things you'll need to consider. For instance:
- You'll need to carefully consider what your budget will be. Most experts recommend that your car budget shouldn't exceed 15 to 20 percent of your overall monthly budget, including the insurance you'll need for the vehicle.
- It will be important that you do a bit of research to figure out what the correct price for the car is. A good place to start is at the dealership. Upon request, a dealer will not only reveal the price they are willing to sell a new version of the car you want, but will also reveal the manufacturer's suggested retail price of that same vehicle in brand new condition. If you are buying a previously-owned vehicle, knowing the retail price of a new version can help ensure you don't pay too much as well.
- A thorough inspection will be needed, by you and by a mechanic you trust. This is essential , as missing documents, like the previous MOT certificates or logbook, could indicate a stolen vehicle. Damaged, missing, or corroded car parts can make purchasing the car much more expensive than you want to pay or can afford to pay as well.
- Research will need to be done to determine what common problems the vehicle will likely have in the future. This can give you an idea of how much you'll have to spend to keep the car up and running for however many years you decide to own it.
By carefully evaluating every aspect before making the purchase, you'll not only save money, but ensure that the car you buy will be safe and able to carry your family from point A to point B. In the case of the Peugeot Partner and Peugeot Bipper, we've done a bit of the research for you to help you start your car-buying journey. If you're trying to decide between these two vehicles, the common problems below can help you make an informed decision that will prevent you from spending too much or investing in the wrong car.
Peugeot Parts: Common Problems With the Partner
The Peugeot Partner is a leisure activity vehicle, but is also classified as a panel van. The first version was introduced in 1996, and the Partner II is now available to own. It is a well built car, and, aside from the different badges, exactly the same as the Berlingo from Citroen. The current version comes with a variety of options and a very large cargo space. While it is know to be high quality, this Peugeot model does have its fair share of problems, like any car.
- Starting Problems- Starting problems often occur in both warm and cold temperatures, and are usually caused by a failing fuel pump. This will need to be replaced in order to resolve the issue.
- Indicator Switch- In the Partner, many owners have experienced problems with their indicators failing to self-cancel. Instead, they stay on continuously, or when the driver straightens the steering wheel a switch to the other indicator is made. This problem is common and requires a replacement of the indicator switch.
- FAP Blockage- You may experience the FAP warning light when driving the Partner. The FAP is another name for the Diesel Particulate Filter, which Peugeot gives to their vehicles. When they become blocked, the warning light can appear on the dashboard. In order to correct this, you'll need to take the car out onto the A-road or motorway and drive for at least 15 minutes at a higher speed. This should help to burn off the particulates that are blocking the filter. If it doesn't, the filter will need to be cleaned manually.
- Shuddering- When taking off, a common fault with the Partner is shuddering, and it is most often caused by an issue with the engine mounts. In order to stop the problem, these Peugeot parts will have to be replaced.
Peugeot Parts: Common Problems With the Bipper
The Peugeot Bipper is a small delivery van that first came into production in 2008. It's production was a joint venture by Fiat, Citroen, PSA, and Peugeot, but each manufacturer has their own version of the car. For instance, Fiat has the Fiorino and Citroen has the Nemo. They are all extremely similar, though and offer great handling, decent loading areas, and quality car parts.
Sound too good to be true? Like any car, there are a few problems you'll have to deal with if you buy the Bipper.
- Power Steering- The fully-electric power steering on the Bipper often becomes a problem for drivers. They have reported it not working like it should or becoming too heavy. The end cause is most likely the power steering motor, which will have to be replaced by a reputable mechanic.
- Oil Smell- Under the engine cover, there is what is known as an oil breather pipe. In the Bipper, this Peugeot part can split, leaking oil and leaving the smell of oil inside the cabin. Because this isn't pleasant, you'll want to check for a split breather pipe as soon as you notice the odour and replace it.
- Power Loss- Thinking about purchasing the 1.3L turbo diesel? Before you do, you might want to check into the price of a replacement turbo seal. These car parts can blow, leading to power loss, black smoke coming from the exhaust, and the engine running irregularly.
- DPF Warning- Like in the Partner, the Diesel Particulate Filter warning light will come on if the filter is clogged because of particulates. The advise for fixing this issue is the same as with the Partner.
When you're thinking about buying a car, don't rush to a decision. Take your time and really evaluate everything that could go wrong and all the costs associated with it. In the end, you'll be glad you spent a bit of extra time thinking in order to save yourself time, money, and trouble in the long run.
