As a proud owner of a Peugeot 307, I frequently use the economy mode feature to save fuel and reduce my car’s carbon footprint. But sometimes, well-meaning electronic systems can actually become quite bothersome. This post explains how I successfully turned off economy mode on my Peugeot 307 when I deemed it unnecessary.
Understanding the Purpose of Economy Mode in Peugeot 307
Economy mode is designed to minimize energy consumption by shutting down some non-essential electrical components such as the radio or air conditioning when your vehicle has been idle for an extended period. However, there may be instances where you’d prefer to disable this function, especially if your car will be unused for long periods. It’s important to note that economy mode will automatically engage again once the engine is restarted, so disabling it is only temporary.
Managing Important Systems During Long Periods of Inactivity
If you’re planning on leaving your Peugeot 307 unused for an extended time, disabling economy mode can help ensure that critical battery power isn’t drained. A fully charged battery is essential for starting your vehicle after prolonged inactivity, helping to prolong its life and avoid costly repairs or replacements.
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How to Turn Off Economy Mode on Your Peugeot 307
Thankfully, turning off economy mode in your Peugeot 307 is a simple process that requires just a few steps:
- Turn on your ignition without starting the engine by turning the key to the accessory (ACC) position or pressing the Start button without depressing the clutch or brake pedal. This allows you to access the car’s electronics without actually starting the engine.
- Locate the economy mode button or switch. In some Peugeot 307 models, it may be situated on the center console, near the gear shift, or as a translation of “economy mode” in French: “mode économie d’énergie.” Other models might not have a dedicated button; in that case, the feature is automatically enabled when specific energy-saving conditions are met (more on that later).
- If you’ve located a designated economy mode button, simply press it to deactivate the feature while the ignition is still in the ACC position.
If you’re unable to locate a dedicated economy mode button in your Peugeot 307, there’s another way to disable this feature:
Turning Off Economy Mode Without Using a Button
Some Peugeot 307 owners’ experiences suggest that driving at sustained high speeds for a brief period can force a reset of the car’s computer, which will then trigger an exit from economy mode. To try this method:
- Ensure that it’s safe for you to do so, observing local traffic laws and regulations.
- Taking the necessary safety precautions, accelerate the vehicle to reach a speed around 60 mph (approximately 96 km/h) and maintain it for about a minute.
- Gradually slow down your vehicle and pull over somewhere safe. Turn off the engine and restart it after a few seconds have elapsed.
For some drivers, this method has successfully turned off economy mode without requiring any manual interference.
Note About Resetting Economy Mode
It’s vital to remember that simply pressing the economy mode button again or restarting your car could re-engage this feature. So, every time you wish to turn off economy mode, you may need to follow the steps above once more.
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Troubleshooting Common Issues Related to Economy Mode
Occasionally, turning off economy mode on your Peugeot 307 might not be as straightforward as it seems. Below are some common issues and possible solutions:
Battery Problems Preventing Disengagement of Economy Mode
If your battery is experiencing low charge levels or is nearing the end of its service life, it could cause difficulty in disengaging economy mode. To remedy this issue:
- Inspect your battery terminals for debris, corrosion, or loose connections that might be preventing proper charging.
- Take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic or Peugeot service center for professional guidance and battery testing if you suspect it’s at fault.
Electrical System Malfunctions Obscuring Economy Mode Solution
Should an electrical problem, such as a blown fuse, faulty alternator, or malfunctioning car computer, affect normal vehicle operation, even disabling economy mode can become a challenge. In these instances:
- Check your owner’s manual or seek professional support to correctly identify any pertinent fuses or components that govern your Peugeot 307’s electrical system.
- Bring your vehicle to a qualified technician familiar with Peugeot models who can accurately troubleshoot and diagnose potential mechanical or electrical problems.
By striving to understand the underlying causes behind economy mode concerns, I’ve managed to ensure better performance and overall functionality in my beloved Peugeot 307. Though temporarily disabling this energy-saving feature isn’t always ideal, doing so has occasionally proved essential based on individual driving and storage needs. I sincerely hope this guide helps resolve any economy mode troubles you may encounter with your own Peugeot 307.
About the author
Marcus Brown is editor-in-chief of The FatMech and is a mechanic with ten years' experience based in London, UK. Having worked for major dealerships for many years, Marcus now works for a local independent garage and has experience working on nearly every make and model of car. Marcus also has a passion for writing and teaching, which is where the idea for The FatMech came from. In his spare time, Marcus enjoys playing golf, doing home renovations and gardening. He lives just outside London with his wife and son.