Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior lights), dashboard instruments, fuses, relays, wiring harnesses, starting and charging system diagnostics.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, rust prevention and repair, chassis components.
HVAC System:
Heating system, ventilation, air conditioning system (if equipped), refrigerant handling, components (compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor).
Interior Trim:
Seat removal and installation, dashboard removal, interior paneling, headliner, carpet.
Procedures Included
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections, belt and hose inspections, tune-ups.
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based fault finding, electrical system troubleshooting guides.
Engine Repair:
Engine rebuild procedures, cylinder head removal and installation, piston and ring replacement, valve jobs, timing belt/chain replacement, oil pump and seal replacement.
4-speed and 5-speed manual transmissions (e.g., BE1, MA5).
Optional
Automatic Transmission:
3-speed and 4-speed automatic transmissions (less common, often ZF sourced).
Features
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback.
Length:
Approx. 4035 mm
Width:
Approx. 1680 mm
Height:
Approx. 1380 mm
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 950 kg - 1100 kg depending on engine and trim.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Data:
Limited official Euro NCAP or equivalent data available for this era, but known for robust chassis construction for its time.
Active Features
Standard Safety:
Disc front brakes, drum rear brakes, seat belts.
Passive Features
Optional Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some later models, particularly GTi variants.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory fitted radio/cassette players, often with basic speaker systems. Aftermarket upgrades common.
Driver Assistance
Assistance Features:
Limited driver assistance features typical for its era. Focus on mechanical and electrical systems rather than electronic aids.
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
No integrated connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Primarily basic electrical functions.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific engine).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial interval, typically every 60,000-80,000 miles or 5 years for petrol engines (e.g., XU engines). Critical to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by spark plug type, typically 20,000-40,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Grade:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3. Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-50 depending on climate and engine (refer to manual for specific engine and ambient temperature).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed with distilled water. Typically a 50/50 mix. Refer to manual for specific type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 gear oil. Viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent ATF fluid (if equipped with automatic transmission).
Known Issues
Common Problems:
Rust in wheel arches and sills, aging suspension bushings, potential for head gasket failure on higher mileage engines, electrical connector corrosion, exhaust system wear, clutch wear.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Peugeot History Context:
Peugeot, a venerable French automaker with a long history of producing robust and well-engineered vehicles.
Model Evolution
309 Development:
Developed by Peugeot to fill the gap between the 205 and 305, utilizing a platform shared with the Citroën BX. Designed to be more practical than the 205 with larger interior space.
Facelifts And Updates:
Received a significant facelift in 1989 with updated styling, improved interior, and engine revisions. Introduced diesel engines and turbo variants during its lifespan.
Production
Production Period:
1985 to 1993 (main production). Covered by manual until 1997 for maintenance and repair information.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in France.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Model Awards:
While the 309 itself didn't win major individual awards like its smaller sibling, the 205, it was generally well-regarded for its practicality, comfort, and driving dynamics within its segment during its production run.