Models · Peugeot
Peugeot RCZ buying guide
Peugeot's coupé, on sale from 2010 to 2015 with 1.6 turbo petrol and 2.0 HDi diesel engines, facelifted in March 2013 and topped by the 270bhp RCZ R from 2014. Its known points are few and well documented.
The versions
- 1.6 THP turbo petrol, 156bhp or 200bhp (timing chain)
- 2.0 HDi diesel, 163bhp (timing belt, every 10 years or 140,000 miles)
- RCZ R from 2014: 270bhp version of the 1.6 turbo
- Manual gearboxes; an automatic was offered only with the THP 156
- Coupé, facelifted in March 2013 with a new nose
What to check on a Peugeot RCZ
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Corrosion on the roof arches
What to look for: Look closely along the silver aluminium arches that run over the roof, especially at the ends and around the end seals, for bubbling, white corrosion or lifting finish. Listen for creaks or wind noise from them on the drive.
Why it matters: The aluminium roof arches corrode, and they are a major item to replace. Their end seals can also work loose and cause noises.
Gearbox whine and shift quality
What to look for: On the drive, listen for whining from the gearbox in each gear, and change up and down through all of them. Note any hesitancy or stiff, obstructive movement of the lever.
Why it matters: The gearbox is described as the RCZ's one weak area, with whining, hesitancy and obstructive shifting the reported symptoms. On the THP 156, the automatic is generally considered best avoided.
Temperature gauge and coolant sensor
What to look for: Watch the temperature gauge from a cold start through the drive. It should rise steadily and settle. Note it reading very hot or very cold for no reason, and check the coolant level with the engine cold.
Why it matters: The coolant level sensors can fail, and the temperature gauge can read very hot or cold for no reason. A real overheating problem needs ruling out before putting it down to the sensor.
Also in the full guide
- Recalls, especially on diesels
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the Peugeot RCZ
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Peugeot.