In the automotive world, two of the most popular French brands, Peugeot and Citroen, have faced off for decades, each striving to dominate the market with their innovative designs, performance, and reliability. But when it comes to dependability, which one emerges as a more reliable brand? In this article, we will examine various aspects of these two car manufacturers to help you make an informed decision in your quest for a dependable vehicle.
A Brief History of Peugeot and Citroen
Understanding the origins of both companies is essential for establishing a foundation for comparing their current state of reliability. The Peugeot brand can trace its roots back to 1810, but it wasn’t until 1889 that they began producing automobiles. Since then, the company has grown into a global powerhouse known for its distinctive and stylish cars.
Meanwhile, Citroen entered the automotive scene in 1919 under the guidance of André-Gustave Citroën. Building on innovative engineering concepts and mass production techniques, Citroen quickly gained a reputation for quality vehicles. Today, Citroen continues to build on that legacy by providing a variety of models for modern customers.
Chect our tips to know if you can drive with an Anti-Pollution fault in your Peugeot 207?
Joining Forces – The PSA Group
In 1976, Peugeot acquired Citroen, forming the PSA Group in an effort to join forces against rival automakers. This merger brought about the sharing of platforms, engines, and other technologies between the two brands but still allowed them to preserve their unique identities and market positioning. Therefore, while considering the reliability of Peugeot or Citroen, the influence of PSA’s collaboration should not be overlooked.
Brand Reliability Ratings
When evaluating vehicle reliability, it’s essential to consider various sources that rank brands based on owner satisfaction, reports of problems, and overall dependability. Several organizations conduct research and surveys to compile this data and create rankings reflecting the brand’s overall reliability.
The J.D. Power Rankings
J.D. Power is one of the most well-known and reputable entities offering automotive ratings. Their annual Vehicle Dependability Study surveys owners of three-year-old vehicles, asking them about any relevant problems they have encountered in the past year. The results are then used to calculate a score for each brand.
In their 2021 study, Peugeot ranked 15th out of 31 manufacturers with a rating of 98 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100). Citroen, on the other hand, did not appear in the ranking due to an insufficient sample size of respondents owning their cars.
The Consumer Reports Rating
American non-profit organization Consumer Reports conducts independent evaluations of consumer products, including automobiles. They gather data from their subscribers who rate their vehicles in terms of reliability.
In recent years, Consumer Reports has not provided ratings specifically for Peugeot or Citroën since these brands are currently not available for purchase in the US market. As such, we cannot use their findings directly to compare the two. However, looking at previous ratings before their withdrawal from the US market, both French brands faced challenges related to reliability.
Common Issues With Peugeot and Citroen Cars
As with any car manufacturer, there will always be commonly reported issues for specific models within any given brand. Here are some commonly reported issues associated with certain Peugeot and Citroen models that may affect their overall reliability scores:
Peugeot Common Issues
- Electrical issues: Some Peugeot owners report experiencing problems in various electrical systems, including airbags or power steering.
- Engine management problems: Faulty engine sensors and emission-control devices have sometimes been cited as causing decreased performance in some Peugeot vehicles.
- Suspension faults: In several cases, drivers have reported wearing out of suspension components faster than expected.
Citroen Common Issues
- Excessive brake wear: Some Citroen cars have been known to exhibit rapid brake wear, leading to frequent replacement needs.
- Issues with anti-pollution systems: Certain Citroen models are prone to computer warnings regarding the anti-pollution system which can require attention from technicians.
- Ride quality issues: Although Citroens are often praised for their comfortable ride quality, some users have reported problems related to suspension elements wearing out prematurely.
Maintaining Reliability Through Proper Care
No matter which brand you choose, proper maintenance is key to ensuring your vehicle’s longevity and dependability. This means adhering to manufacturer-recommended servicing schedules, using genuine parts, and caring for your vehicle appropriately. By doing this, you will not only maintain its integrity but also reduce potential issues that could otherwise impact its overall reliability.
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In Conclusion: The Choice Is Yours
The debate between Peugeot and Citroen reliability ultimately hinges on individual factors, such as personal preferences, driving habits, and intended usage. It’s always advisable to do thorough research before purchasing a vehicle – consult customer reviews, reliability reports, and speak with owners and mechanics who may have insight into the specific model you plan on buying. Armed with the right information, you’ll be able to make a well-informed decision tailored to your needs and preferences.
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.