Engine with a capacity 1,4 dm3, despite the two-valve timing of each cylinder, it has decent power – 55 kW. With four people on board, similar to other units of this capacity, it lacks overtaking torque, and the last gear is only for maintaining the speed achieved. However, this engine is economical, consumes on average approx 7,2 liter of 100 km, which in combination with a tank with a capacity of 60 liters allows you to drive without refueling 900 km. The pleasure of traveling is reduced by the uncertain and imprecise operation of the gearshift mechanism and the hard-working clutch. However, it must be emphasized, that the power steering works very well.
In the model 306 a delicate suspension was used, which is not suitable for Polish roads. There was a lot of knocking while driving, because the stabilizer links or the rubber-metal sleeves of the rocker arms "stuck out". Fortunately, that the cost of their replacement is acceptable to the user. However, the greater the mileage of the car, the greater the scale of problems and expenses. In the third year of operation, the climax was with the run 79 000 km. The vehicle has become very unstable, he reacted badly to the steering wheel movements and it became downright dangerous to drive. To bring the running gear to the proper condition, the set of shock absorbers and the rear torsion beam rubber cushions had to be replaced. Expenditure related to the replacement of these elements, amounting to over 2200 zlotys, it is a nuisance even to the staunchest Peugeot supporters.
There were also quite serious problems in the engine cooling system. Cracking rubber hoses were replaced, and in one of the cars even a radiator. These failures certainly had an impact on the failure of another team, which is very expensive to repair. In one vehicle already at mileage 68 thousand. km, and in the second at 79 thousand. km, a curved head was mechanically processed, oil and coolant oozing from underneath it. Complete operation, combined with the replacement of the timing belt, is an expense of the order 1200 zlotys.
The least troublesome unit was the brake system, in which the first replacement of the blocks was made after 21 thousand, and the shields only after 60 thousand. km. The drivetrain was placed right behind it, which only broke once, after the run 40 thousand. km, the support bearing and the leaking axle shaft seals were replaced.
In sum, it must be said, that under heavy use of Peugeot 306 turned out to be an emergency car. It is definitely a vehicle, which requires very gentle handling. A second-hand car with a large number of kilometers driven requires a very thorough assessment of specialists, because it is likely, that it will crash frequently.
Although the density of Peugeot's maintenance and repair network is high, and the general importer guarantees the same quality of service, however, the success of operation and operational reliability of the vehicle largely depend on this, will we find a good service, taking good care of the car.