Peugeot 5008 (Gen 2) Common Problems & Reliability
The second-generation Peugeot 5008 (2017–2024) successfully transitioned from a traditional MPV to a more contemporary, stylish seven-seat SUV, garnering praise for its versatile cabin and distinctively upscale "i-Cockpit" interior design. While this generation marks a significant improvement in overall build quality over its predecessor, it is not without its mechanical and electrical complexities. A prospective owner must be prepared for the specific maintenance demands of its engine and emissions hardware. The primary mechanical concern is the 1.2 PureTech petrol engine, which utilizes a "wet belt" timing system that runs submerged in engine oil. The long-term reliability of this component is entirely dependent on adhering to stringent service intervals and using the precise oil viscosity specified by PSA. Failure to maintain these standards can result in belt degradation, where rubber particles clog the oil pump, potentially leading to catastrophic engine damage. It is critical to confirm that any used 5008 has a documented, complete service history from a Peugeot Main Dealer. Diesel-powered variants (BlueHDi) are fundamentally robust for high-mileage users, provided the AdBlue emissions control system is managed correctly. The internal pump and tank sensor assembly are known weak points, and failure typically requires an expensive, complete tank replacement. Furthermore, drivers of diesel 5008s should prioritize regular motorway journeys to ensure effective Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) regeneration; frequent, short urban journeys can lead to premature clogging, which eventually demands costly intervention. Finally, while electrical issues are frequent, they typically manifest as non-catastrophic software glitches—such as infotainment freezing or sensor errors—rather than complete system failure. Many of these quirks are effectively resolved via dealership firmware updates. Potential buyers should comprehensively test all digital interfaces and request documentation confirming that all relevant software recalls have been addressed. While the 5008 Gen 2 is a highly capable family transport, it is a vehicle that rewards strict adherence to preventative maintenance schedules.
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Detailed fault breakdown, symptoms, and estimated repair bills by production year.
Most Common Peugeot 5008 (Gen 2) Faults & Repair Costs
1.2 PureTech "Wet Belt" Degradation
The 1.2 PureTech three-cylinder petrol engine utilises a wet timing belt running bathed in engine oil. The rubber belt degrades over time due to fuel dilution and heat cycles, shedding rubber debris into the oil sump. This debris clogs the oil pickup strainer, causing oil starvation, vacuum pump failure, and dangerous loss of brake servo assistance (Recall R/2020/331), leading to engine destruction if neglected.
Low oil pressure warning lamp illuminated while driving, Hard brake pedal requiring heavy effort due to vacuum pump blockage, Engine warning light illuminated with variable valve timing fault codes, Visible surface cracking, fuzzing, or swelling on the timing belt viewed via oil filler cap
- Inspect the timing belt width and surface condition through the oil filler neck using a gauge
- Verify complete service history proving annual oil changes with PSA B71 2312 or B71 2010 oil
- Check DVSA database to confirm safety recall R/2020/331 has been completed
AdBlue / BlueHDi Emissions Failure
On 1.5 and 2.0 BlueHDi diesel models, the selective catalytic reduction (SCR) AdBlue tank houses an integrated pump, heating element, and urea level sensor. Crystallisation of urea solution and internal circuit board failure cause delivery failure, illuminating the UREA warning lamp and initiating a non-restart countdown (commencing at 700 miles). Because the tank is a sealed unit, complete replacement of the tank assembly is required.
UREA and engine management warning lights illuminated on instrument cluster, Driver information display shows non-restart countdown: "Starting impossible in 700 miles", Crystallised white urea residue visible on tank casing underneath the luggage compartment, Diagnostic fault codes P20EE, P208E, or P20A2 logged in engine control module
- Turn on ignition to check instrument display for active UREA warning symbols or mileage countdowns
- Review service paperwork for previous dealer AdBlue tank replacements or software updates
- Examine the underbody area around the AdBlue tank for dried white powder indicating urea leakage
1.5 BlueHDi Camshaft Timing Chain Snapping
The 1.5-litre BlueHDi (DV5R) 16-valve engine fitted from late 2017 utilizes an internal 7mm chain to connect the twin camshafts. Inadequate lubrication tolerance and high stress lead to premature chain stretch, rattling, and sudden breakage. Chain failure bends valves, shears camshaft carriers, and destroys the cylinder head. Stellantis issued a special coverage programme and upgraded replacement kit with an 8mm chain and redesigned cylinder head housing.
Metallic rattling or clattering noise from top of cylinder head on cold startup, Sudden engine cut-out under power followed by failure to crank or restart, Starter motor spins rapidly without resistance due to total loss of cylinder compression, Check engine light with stored camshaft-to-crankshaft timing correlation fault codes
- Listen for metallic ticking or slapping noise near the camshaft cover during cold idle
- Check service history to confirm if the 8mm camshaft chain conversion kit has been fitted
- Verify oil changes were strictly performed every 12 months using approved PSA B71 2010 (0W-20) oil
Electric Powered Tailgate Motor and Strut Failure
On Allure Premium, GT Line, and GT models equipped with hands-free powered tailgates, the motorised lift struts and latch mechanism frequently suffer mechanical or electrical failure. Water ingress into electric strut motors or internal gear stripping causes the tailgate to stop mid-travel, emit continuous warning beeps, refuse to latch shut, or drop suddenly, creating frustration on a high-utility seven-seater.
Tailgate opens partially and halts with repeated acoustic warning beeps, Electric lift strut produces loud grinding or straining noises during movement, Tailgate fails to cinch down and latch into lock mechanism automatically, Hands-free foot sensor beneath rear bumper fails to trigger tailgate opening
- Test power tailgate operation repeatedly using dashboard switch, key fob, and boot release button
- Inspect electric strut bodies and wiring boots for signs of fluid leakage or casing corrosion
- Verify that the soft-close latch draws the tailgate tightly into the body without manual assistance
i-Cockpit Touchscreen and Digital Binnacle Freezing
The 5008 features an 8-inch or 10-inch central touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Software glitches in the NAC telematics unit cause screen freezes, blackouts, sluggish response, and random reboots. Because heating, air conditioning, and seat ventilation controls are routed solely through the central screen, software crashes render cabin temperature adjustments impossible while driving.
Central touchscreen display freezes on one menu, turns completely black, or reboots repeatedly, Digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster dials flicker, reset layout, or freeze temporarily, Total inability to adjust cabin temperature, blower fan speed, or demisting via touchscreen, Bluetooth phone connectivity and smartphone mirroring audio freeze or disconnect
- Adjust heating and air conditioning controls across multiple screens to confirm instant response
- Cycle through all 12.3-inch instrument cluster visual layouts (Dials, Navigation, Driving, Minimal)
- Check service history to confirm whether the NAC telematics unit has received the latest firmware updates
Rear Suspension Spring and Bush Wear Under Load
As a full seven-seat SUV capable of carrying heavy passenger loads, the 5008 places high stress on its rear coil springs, shock absorbers, and trailing-arm axle bushes. In UK conditions, road salt and potholes cause rear coil springs to crack (especially the bottom pigtail coil), while deteriorated beam bushes cause dull knocking over speed humps and excessive rear tyre inner-edge scrubbing.
Dull knocking or thudding noise from the rear axle when driving over speed cushions, Visible rear-end sag or unequal ride height between left and right rear corners, Excessive inner-edge tyre wear on the rear wheels, Advisory or failure noted on UK MOT test for fractured coil spring or deteriorated suspension bushes
- Inspect rear coil springs with a torch to check for broken bottom coils or rust flaking
- Examine rear tyre tread across the full width for uneven inner shoulder wear
- Check MOT history on GOV.UK for previous rear suspension spring or bush advisories
Buying a used Peugeot 5008 (Gen 2)? Always check for hidden finance and write-off history.
Mechanical problems are only half the battle. Over 1 in 3 UK used cars checked have unpaid finance or accident write-off records that could cause you to lose the car or thousands in value.