1990 Peugeot 405 DL 1.9 petrol
Summary:
Better than the American and Japanese competitors of that era
Faults:
Excessive rust, especially on cold days. Heavy rain is also bad for the bodywork, which is the car's weakest point.
The engine is sensitive to temperature. Leaks in the cooling system, clogged radiators, or electric fans that don't turn on in time can cause overheating.
Excessive oil consumption due to worn piston rings, worn valve guides, and dried-out valve seals.
Electrical and power supply failures. Sensors (such as the fuel cut-off valve sensor) and electrical connectors corroded due to age.
General Comments:
My experience tells me that the 405 was one of the best cars I ever owned, a very reliable and economical vehicle. It stands out primarily for its superior ride comfort and excellent stability on the road.
The ride in this vehicle is incredibly smooth, perfect for long trips, which is also when it's most fuel-efficient.
It handles very firmly and inspires a lot of confidence on the road.
While the DL is the base model, if I had to compare it to the Ford Tempo I previously owned, I'd say the 405 surpasses it in every way: much more comfortable, softer seats, and above all, much easier to drive.
Looking at it even today, it doesn't seem like a car that's almost 40 years old. Europeans have truly timeless designs, and the 405 is the perfect example. My previous Tempo looks very dated today, but even many Japanese cars that sold well in the US in the 80s and early 90s look much older. That's why I say that, for me, this Peugeot was one of the best cars on the market.
Perhaps the dealership issues are what prevented this car from selling more, because in terms of comfort and reliability, it has nothing to envy in other similar cars from those years.
The engine, apart from oil leaks, is quite efficient, making the car agile and enjoyable to drive. It reaches 120 mph without any problems, and it's also fuel-efficient.
It was the last Peugeot officially sold in North America, and the truth is, like its predecessors, it didn't disappoint. An underrated car that deserved far greater recognition, at least in these parts.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 14th June, 2026
19th Jun 2026, 12:59
Overall, the 406 was a good car. Perhaps not as rugged or robust as the 405, but it was decent.
I would have liked to see it sold in the US, but production there ended with the 405.
Even so, I’ve seen a few 406s around here; the coupé is spectacular. The truth is, Peugeot has always made beautiful cars.
14th Jun 2026, 18:57
I'd say the 405 was the last truly great Peugeot, after that every model got worse. The 406 that followed had a much worse build quality and lacked the durability and simplicity of the 405.