The Peugeot 1.5L BlueHDI 130 is a 1.5L inline 4-cylinder engine that offers 130hp and 300Nm of torque. It is being used on a wide variety of Peugeot diesel models, but it seems like all diesel Peugeot models are going out of production starting in 2023. In this article, we are going to list all the Peugeot 1.5 BlueHDI 130 problems and tell you what to look out for.
For starters, the 1.5L HDI is known to experience problems with the DPF (Diesel particulate filter) which is a known sore point for many diesel engines. Many HDI engines also tend to suffer from AdBlue problems which can affect the car’s electrical and emissions systems.
Another fairly serious issue is one related to the chain which can cause the entire engine to fail if not deal with in due time. Thankfully, this issue is not all that common, but if it happens, it leads to eye-watering repair costs.
We also need to mention certain issues which can lead to subpar acceleration, especially while the engine is cold. All in all, the 1.5L HDI can be a really good engine if you manage to maintain it well enough. The reality is that many of these found on older Peugeot models were neglected, and thus are prone to a wide spectrum of potential issues.
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) Problems
As mentioned in the intro, DPF-related problems are common across multiple diesel engines and the 1.5L HDI is no different. These tend to affect city-driven cars the most as the DPF usually needs a good while before it can reach optimal temperatures and thus start lowering your emissions. If you just use your 1.5L for city driving and short-distance commuting, you could face DPF issues quite easily.
The most common DPF-related 1.5L HDI issues are clogging or failing an emissions test, both of which can lead to needing to replace the DPF which can cost a lot of money. The best thing to do is to go for a high-quality additive that should clean the DPF while the engine is running. If you do this proactively, you are much less likely to experience DPF issues.
AdBlue Problems
Problems with the AdBlue tank are also a common occurrence on many HDI engines including the 1.5L inline 4-cylinder. The problem here is that the fluid can sometimes find its way into the sealed area of the tank that houses all the electronics. This can lead to short circuits and potentially even corroding those lines which will need replacing and sealing once more.
In order to keep an eye out for this, it’s best to add the AdBlue liquid strictly adhering to the instructions listed in the owner’s manual. As these problems mostly tend to form when too much AdBlue is added, if you follow the instructions, you should be good. Moreover, even if this problem happens while doing everything properly, the problem is likely going to be covered under warranty.
Timing Chain Problems
Timing chain problems are some of the worst problems any engine can face as a faulty chain/tensioner can exert massive stress on the engine and even destroy it. The good thing is that these problems can be noticed early on if the engine is emitting strange knocking noises, especially on idle. As such, be sure to pay close attention to how the engine runs as that will enable you to prevent this problem from becoming much worse.
Also, be sure to keep an eye on your oil levels and replace them according to the owner’s manual as that is going to help the engine timing to be as focused as it can be. If the chain fails, it is going to destroy your engine. Buying a new 1.5L HDI engine can often be more expensive than the car itself which will lead to it being written off by insurance providers.
Subpar Acceleration Problems
Finally, we are also going to mention problems related to the car not wanting to accelerate quickly enough. It is believed that this problem is caused by either the mass-airflow sensor (MAF) or due to the injectors not getting the proper lubrication.
This problem can also be solved in the earlier stages simply by using high-quality fuel additives which will both keep you safe from subpar acceleration and help with the AdBlue tank problems mentioned above. The most common symptom of this is a 1.5L HDI that struggles during cold winter, especially before it reaches optimum temperature.
FAQ Section
Is The Peugeot 1.5L HDI A Good Engine?
One of the biggest pet peeves with diesel engines is the lack of sophistication and an increased emissions profile, both of which make them less popular than gasoline engines, especially in today’s day and age. However, none can deny that diesel engines do come with their own set of advantages which include better efficiency, more torque, and potential long-term mileage.
The 1.5L HDI is not the world’s most sophisticated engine, but it does fare better than most engines on the market. Secondly, it emits less than 100g of CO2 per kilometer which also makes it quite economical for an engine with 130hp and 300Nm of torque.
How Long Can The Peugeot 1.5L HDI Last?
If properly maintained, there are no reasons why you shouldn’t expect the 1.5L HDI to last less than 200,000 miles. These engines are often used for commercial purposes as well which means that Peugeot does believe that most HDI units can withstand long-term excessive abuse with proper maintenance.
Therefore, if the engine hasn’t been abused and has gotten all the necessary maintenance, it should be able to last a really long time.
Why Is Peugeot Getting Rid Of Diesel Engines?
Back in 2018, Peugeot came out and said that they are going to stop spending R&D money on developing new diesel engines which was the first official acknowledgment that Peugeot is getting rid of all diesel engines. Peugeot also said that 2023 will be the year when there are going to be no new diesel engines with a Peugeot badge.
Peugeot did this to adhere to the new trend of hybridization and lowering emissions in order to appeal to a wide (mostly wealthy) customer base that pays lots of attention to the carbon footprint of cars. Secondly, it makes more sense to downsize and turbocharge/hybridize gasoline engines which are inherently not as harmful to the environment.