Common Peugeot Problems
Peugeot’s UK mainstream range has moved from simple hatchbacks with rear-beam and electrical foibles to modern cars dominated by PureTech wet belts, AdBlue hardware, touchscreen faults and expensive emissions-related warning lights. Older cars can still be good value, but condition and maintenance history matter far more than badge or trim.
Common Peugeot trouble spots
- •1.2 PureTech "wet-belt" degradation (Recall R/2020/331) can block the oil pickup, leading to vacuum pump failure and loss of braking assistance.
- •BlueHDi AdBlue tanks and pump failures are very common, often requiring a complete (and expensive) tank replacement (£800–£1,500).
- •Infotainment and i-Cockpit software stability issues are frequent on newer models (308 Mk3, 408), often requiring firmware updates.
What to check on used Peugeots
- ✓Check VIN recall status for wet-belt, fuel-pipe, brake or software campaigns because many Peugeots have had running changes that are not obvious from a service book alone
- ✓On any 1.2 PureTech (pre-2023), inspect the belt through the oil filler and confirm the 10-year/112k mile UK extended warranty criteria are met
- ✓On BlueHDi diesels, treat AdBlue warnings, repeated emissions advisories or recent cheap resets as red flags until a proper diagnosis is shown
- ✓Test i-Cockpit screens and infotainment thoroughly; ensure the latest software version is installed to mitigate common reboot and connectivity bugs
Select a Peugeot Model
Peugeot 3008 (Mk3)
New panoramic i-Cockpit. Uses chain-driven MHEV engines.
Peugeot 5008 (Mk3)
Large 7-seater with new panoramic interior.
Peugeot 408
Sleek crossover with i-Connect software teething issues.
Peugeot 308 (Mk3)
Latest 308 with new logo. Early cars have significant software bugs.
Peugeot 2008 (Gen 2)
Large crossover with CMP platform and PSA engine risks.
Peugeot 208 (Gen 2)
Bold design and i-Cockpit. Shares PureTech and AdBlue risks.
Peugeot 508 (Gen 2)
Sleek executive car. Frameless windows and AdBlue are main issues.
Peugeot 5008 (Gen 2)
7-seat SUV with common PSA engine and exhaust issues.
Peugeot 3008 (Gen 2)
Highly successful SUV but has PureTech and AdBlue risks.
Peugeot Expert (K0)
The mid-size van shared with Citroen (Dispatch) and Toyota (Proace). It's car-like and efficient, but plagued by AdBlue system failures and potential engine issues on the 1.5 BlueHDi.
Peugeot 108
A lightweight city car shared with Toyota and Citroën. Cheap to run and insure, but clutches, front suspension and door locks wear quickly in town use.
Peugeot 308 (T9)
Refined hatch with common PureTech and AdBlue vulnerabilities.
Peugeot 2008 (Gen 1)
Practical crossover. 1.2 PureTech and AdBlue are the main concerns.
Peugeot 208 (Gen 1)
A stylish supermini. Petrols are safer as simple 1.0/1.2 units (non-PureTech early on) or the 1.2 PureTech with strict belt care.
Peugeot 508 (Gen 1)
Comfortable executive car. Later BlueHDi models have AdBlue risks.
Peugeot RCZ
Peugeot's sporty coupe with a distinctive "double bubble" roof. The THP petrol engines are the most popular choice but carry all the Prince-engine risks. Well-maintained THP 200s are rewarding to drive.
Peugeot 3008 (Gen 1)
Original crossover. 1.6 THP is a major red flag.
Peugeot 5008 (Gen 1)
The first-generation 5008 was Peugeot's practical 7-seat MPV. Simple and spacious, but the 1.6 THP is a major red flag and diesel models need careful DPF attention.
Peugeot 308 (T7)
Roomy hatch/estate. 1.6 THP is the biggest reliability risk.
Peugeot 207
A popular supermini that replaced the 206. Most mechanicals are sound, but the EPAS steering column and Prince-engine timing chains are serious concerns. Diesel models need careful DPF and EGR attention.
Peugeot 307
A spacious family hatchback that was popular in the UK. Electrics and engine gaskets are the main weak points. Diesel models suffer the usual PSA DPF and EGR issues. Well-maintained examples can still be reliable.
Peugeot 206
One of Peugeot's biggest sellers, the 206 is cheap, simple and still plentiful on UK roads. Most survivors are high-mileage or cheap first cars, so condition varies enormously. Mechanicals are straightforward but electrics and bodywork show their age.
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