looking for another 406

[cliffk]

I Love my 406 estate its the 2.0 HDI 110 hp model, I quite fancy the 2.2 HDI 136HP there are a few of the executive versions around for sale.
Any ideas on what would be a reasonable price 2003 /2004 year say 120,000 to 140,000 miles decent condition with MOT?

Are there ant pitfalls with the 2.2?

[highlander]

Are there any pitfalls with the 2.2?

The 2.2 HDi has the diesel particulate filter system (DPF, also known as FAP in France), which is prone to clogging if the car isn't driven long enough to trigger regeneration cycles. The FAP system also requires occasional top-up with an additive solution that aids the regeneration process. The fluid is called Eolys and works by lowering the combustion temperature of diesel exhaust particles to the point where they burn off due to the temperatures in the FAP cannister. If the Eolys fluid runs out, the regeneration doesn't happen, the FAP will clog up, and the car will enter "limp-home" mode.

I think the 2.2 HDi also has the dual-mass flywheel, which is a lot more expensive than a single-piece solid flywheel, which may be important to consider when it comes time for a clutch change.

Fuel consumption on the 2.2 HDi is higher compared to the power increase you get over the 110 HDi.

By this point, with diesel being pointed at as "devil fuel" again, and likely to be the target of future fuel duty and VED hikes, I would guess diesel prices will be on their way back down again. And the newest 406 came off the production line 13 years ago. I suspect you might find decent examples for £1000 - £1500.

As always, when looking, check for signs of rust on the sills, and check the car carefully for signs of water ingress, especially in the boot, condensation/mould growth in the rear light clusters, dampness in the footwell carpeting - if it has a sunroof, check the drainage channels are clear and the seal around the glass doesn't look mouldy/green. Test all electrical items (seat motors and heaters, window regulators, door mirror adjustment motors, lights, indicators, horn, wipers). Other than that, if it doesn't look like it's been in a massive accident, it'll probably outlive you.

[Doggy]

I've had two 2.2 HDi estates, the first for 4 years / 90k miles, sold it in 2012 on 180k+, last heard of still going and approaching 300k
The current one has done a bit over 5 years / 115k, (now on 201k). These are the most reliable / comfortable cars I've ever owned.

Incidentally 2.0 110 HDi's have dual mass flywheels too. My bro has recently got a 110 exec to replace his 2.2 and reports no noticeable improvement in mpg.

[GingerMagic]

I agree with Doggy.
I've also had a couple of the 2.2hdi and once the initial issues were sorted (FAP, electrical gremlins and previous owner neglect) they have been the most reliable, comfortable, practical, economical and entertaining cars I have ever owned.
A tweaked 110 will be quicker than a standard 2.2hdi, but once the 2.2hdi is sorted and improved then it's a better car but potentially more to go wrong as it's a bit over engineered.
A nice example will fetch £1500 and a poor example around £300...!!

[dirtydirtydiesel]

Not much to add to what the others have said,
I get 45 - 60 mpg out of my 110, I don't believe that 2.2's are that good but Doggy might say different.
Road tax is more, bit more completed vacuum system, variable vane turbo, oh & D.P.F
Which could be an issue in coming years.
I wanted one for 3 years after having a go in Doggys,
But this year I bought myself a 3.0 V6 coupe to scratch the power itch

There are some leggy ones knocking about at about £1200.00
But there was a really nice one owner for the last 17 years one, in very nice condition on the bay
recently for £1695.00.
I was very tempted, but I've bought the coupe & put too much into my old girl to give her away

[piglet]

Hypothetically speaking.
Are people still De-FAPping under the current MOT rules?

[Doggy]

Hypothetically speaking, it's unlikely any MOT station has a 10 foot long endoscope to check

[cliffk]

Thank you all for your helpful replies it seems I would not be too disappointed should I find a good 2.2 exec, I have a little concern regarding the Eolys fluid I wasn't aware that this additive is a requirement.

I suppose I dont really need another car as I dont really have any intention of retiring my existing 2003 406 as its a brilliant workhorse but I do like these cars and would like to have something a little plusher to use now and again, I could always use the wifes 2008 but if Im honest I think the 406 is more comfortable.

Thanks again for all the informative input.

[highlander]

For those with an intact FAP - how long (roughly) does your Eolys tank last between top-ups, and how much (roughly) does it cost to top up?

[trem1]

For those with an intact FAP - how long (roughly) does your Eolys tank last between top-ups, and how much (roughly) does it cost to top up?

My 407 lasted 100k + and cost £85 for fluid to be filled,3 litres

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