Peugeot 408 VANOS Fault

VANOS issues on these can be tricky. Have you noticed any unusual noises from the engine, particularly on startup? When the check engine light is on, does the car feel down on power, especially at lower RPMs? It might not necessarily be the timing chain right away, but it's worth checking the basics first. Also, how often do you change your oil, and what kind do you use? Incorrect oil viscosity can sometimes cause VANOS to act up.

Thanks for the quick reply! No unusual noises that I've noticed, but it definitely feels sluggish at low RPMs, like it's struggling a bit. I've been using the recommended oil, changing it every 15k km. Could a bad camshaft solenoid valve really cause such a noticeable drop in power and fuel economy, or is it more likely to be a bigger issue like the timing chain?

A faulty camshaft solenoid valve can absolutely cause those symptoms. The VANOS system relies on those solenoids to adjust the camshaft timing, so if one isn't working properly, it can throw off the engine's whole performance. However, given the mileage and the fact that you're getting a VANOS code, I'd still suggest having a workshop take a closer look. They can properly diagnose the solenoid, check the wiring, and also rule out any potential timing chain wear or stretching. It's better to be safe than sorry, as ignoring it could lead to bigger problems down the road. BMW VANOS issues are more known than Peugeot, but they work on the same principle.

Appreciate the advice! Sounds like a trip to the workshop is in order. They've confirmed it's the inlet VANOS, probably a faulty solenoid valve. They quoted me around 250€ for the repair. Hopefully, that'll sort it out. Thanks again!