1996 Peugeot 406 LX review from UK and Ireland

Nothing really, but as this was a company car, I rather got the impression that the local dealer used to "find" things to replace... for example, at 60,000 miles, I reported a slightly slipping clutch. Dealer instantly decided this unit needed replacing and presented my employer with a bill for £500! Unfortunately, the unit was badly fitted, and snagged the speed sensor cable which caused the car to fail in a big way while I was on a business trip in Belgium. After contacting the dealer (who was less than sympathetic) Peugeot head office offered a free service for any other car in my family.

Other things - engine was making a curious noise which I reported to the same dealer - they decided the car was unsafe to drive, and took the car off the road... but left me to find my own way home. Not good.

Lots of little niggles that the dealers have resolved, but costs are high for servicing and general maintenance. If you can do routine maintenance yourself, then do so, and save yourself a lot of money.

I loved to really drive this car... on a quiet backroad, in good conditions, the 406 is a joy to drive... responsive handling, excellent ride, good weight distribution, good performance (although go for a 2.0 litre as the 1.8 is underpowered when travelling with chums), and good brakes. Steering is direct and well weighted, gearbox is full of useful ratios, boot is huge.

Downside - earlier models are sparcely equipped, but the build quality is good and the car feels solid, especially on long motorway drags where comfort is high, and cabin room is good.

I want another, preferably a 3.0 V6... but at 24mpg, I may have to think again.